Open Palm Hand Covers & Uses of Said Covers

Abstract

The present invention has a palmar portion with only one large recess of substantial sixe to enable skin contact with the skin exposed by the one opening. The one large opening is positioned along the glove palmar portion and does not expose any of the wearer's five metacarpophalangeal joints as well as the thumb metacarpal when the glove is worn.

Claims

1. A basketball glove comprising: a partial palmless glove, said partial palmless glove having a palmar portion that is adapted to overlay a palm of a wearer's hand, said glove having one large recess extending principally in a middle of the glove body palmar portion and thereby exposing a middle of the wearer's palm when the glove is worn; said one large recess having a proximal edge and a distal edge; wherein said glove body palmar portion has a top portion comprising: a material the overlays a forefinger metacarpophalangeal joint, a middle finger metacarpophalangeal joint, a ring finger metacarpophalangeal joint, and a pinkie finger metacarpophalangeal joint of the wearer's palm when the glove is worn; and, wherein said one large recess proximal edge is adapted to abut but not expose a top portion of the wearer's palm, thereby not exposing the wearer's metacarpophalangeal joints of the wearer's pinkie finger, ring finger, middle finger or forefinger when the glove is worn.

2. The basketball glove as claimed in claim 1, wherein said glove is absent of any digital segments thereby completely exposing a thumb, forefinger, middle finger, ring finger and pinkie finger of the wearer's hand when the glove is worn.

3. The basketball glove as claimed in claim 1, wherein one large recess does not extend to expose any portion of a thumb metacarpal when the glove is worn.

4. The basketball glove as claimed in claim 1, wherein said glove body palmar portion is adapted to overlay a metacarpal of the thumb, a metacarpal of the forefinger, a metacarpal of the middle finger, a metacarpal of the ring finger, and a metacarpal of the pinkie finger when the glove is worn; wherein said one large recess is the only recess along the glove body palmar portion of substantial size to touch a basketball.

5. The basketball glove as claimed in claim 1, wherein said glove palmar portion comprises of a grip enhancing means that is adapted to overlay a metacarpophalangeal joint of the wearer's forefinger, a metacarpophalangeal joint of the wearer's ring finger, and a metacarpophalangeal joint of the wearer's pinkie finger when the glove is worn; and, wherein said grip enhancing means is configured to create a higher coefficient of friction than a surrounding glove body material forming the glove body palmar portion.

6. The basketball glove as claimed in claim 1, wherein said glove further comprises of a dorsal portion that is adapted to overlay a back of the wearer's hand, said glove dorsal and palmar portions each having distal and proximal ends; wherein said basketball glove having distal ends such that the wearer's thumb, forefinger, middle finger, ring finger and pinkie finger are each exposed and uncovered by the glove; and, wherein said glove body palmar and dorsal portions each having a hypothenar eminence section that is adapted to overlay a hypothenar eminence of the wearer's hand when the glove is worn.

7. The basketball glove as claimed in claim 1, wherein said glove further comprises a grip-enhancing means that is positioned along a top portion of the glove palmar portion and is adapted to increase grip along said top portion than a surrounding palmar portion, thereby allowing the wearer to better control a basketball when the glove is worn by increasing grip along said top portion as compared to the surrounding palmar portion; said grip enhancing means comprising of a plurality of projections configured to create a higher coefficient than the surrounding glove body material forming the glove palmar portion.

8. The basketball glove as claimed in claim 1, wherein said glove palmar portion has a thumb metacarpal portion that is configured to overlay a thumb metacarpal of the wearer's hand.

9. The basketball glove as claimed in claim 1, wherein said one large recess is the only large recess on the glove palmar portion overlaying the wearer's palm; and wherein said palmar portion further comprises a grip enhancing means consisting of a plurality of projections.

10. The basketball glove as claimed in claim 1, wherein said glove palmar portion top portion comprises of a grip-enhancing means that is configured to create a higher coefficient of friction than a surrounding glove palmar portion, thereby increasing the grip capabilities of the wearer along said palmar top portion when the glove is worn.

11. The basketball glove as claimed in claim 1, wherein said glove palmar portion top portion comprising of a grip-enhancing means that is adapted to create a higher coefficient of friction than a surrounding glove palmar portion, thereby increasing the grip capabilities of the wearer along said palmar top portion when the glove is worn; wherein said grip-enhancing means consists of PVC dots.

12. The basketball glove as claimed in claim 1, wherein said one large recess is substantially on the middle of the palm area, having a radius of up to about one inch, thereby defining the boundary of the palm opening substantially on the middle of the wearer's palm.

13. The basketball glove as claimed in claim 1, wherein said one large recess is the only recess along the palmar portion.

14. A sports glove comprising: a partial palmless glove, said partial palmless glove having a palmar portion that is adapted to overlay a palm of a wearer's hand, said glove having one large recess extending in a middle area of the glove body palmar portion to thereby expose principally only a middle of the wearer's palm when the glove is worn; said one large recess having a proximal edge and a distal edge; wherein said glove body palmar portion has a top portion comprising: a material the overlays a forefinger metacarpophalangeal joint, a middle finger metacarpophalangeal joint, a ring finger metacarpophalangeal joint, and a pinkie finger metacarpophalangeal joint of the wearer's palm when the glove is worn; and, wherein said one large recess proximal edge is adapted to abut but not expose a top portion of the wearer's palm, thereby not exposing the wearer's metacarpophalangeal joints of the wearer's pinkie finger, ring finger, middle finger or forefinger when the glove is worn; and, wherein said distal edge is adapted to abut but not expose a thumb metacarpal when the glove is worn; and, wherein said wherein said one large recess is positioned along the glove body palmar portion such that it does not expose a pinkie metacarpal when the glove is worn; and, wherein said one opening is positioned along the palmar portion such that said opening extends to leave exposed only a shooter's gap region of the wearer's palm, and thereby allowing the wearer to focus attention on maintaining the shooter's gap region from touching the basketball while shooting the basketball, and providing instant feedback if said shooter's gap is breached by the basketball touching an exposed palm portion when the glove is worn; and, wherein said glove body dorsal portion further comprises of at least one weight adapted to strengthen hand muscles when the glove is worn; and, wherein said one weight is enclosed in a compartment integral or affixed to the glove body dorsal portion.

15. The sports glove as claimed in claim 14, wherein said glove palmar top portion comprises of a grip-enhancing means that creates a higher coefficient of friction than a surrounding glove palmar portion, thereby increasing the grip capabilities of the wearer along said palmar top portion when the glove is worn; wherein said grip enhancing means is adapted to not extend beyond said glove palmar top portion such that the remaining palmar portion is free of said grip enhancing means.

16. The sports glove as claimed in claim 14, wherein said glove having open distal ends that are adapted such that the wearer's thumb, forefinger, middle finger, and ring finger are each entirely exposed and uncovered by the glove when the glove is worn.

17. The sports glove as claimed in claim 14, wherein said glove In addition, the embodiment has a highlighted area along the perimeter of the one large recess so that trainers can more easily see if a shooting violation is taking place while she shoots the ball; whereon a entire perimeter of the one large recess is highlighted with a bright material or coating in order to be capable of being seen from a distance when a basketball is being properly held on the wearer's shooting hand when the glove is worn.

18. The sports glove as claimed in claim 14, wherein said basketball glove palmar top portion further comprises of a grip-enhancing means; wherein said grip-enhancing means is adapted to increase the grip along the metacarpophalangeal joints of the wearer's palm when gripping a basketball with the shooting hand using a preferred shooting grip; wherein said grip enhancing means is adapted to create a higher coefficient of friction than a surrounding glove palmar portion material which is free of said grip enhancing means.

19. The sports glove as claimed in claim 14, wherein said glove has a distal lateral edge; wherein the glove body palmar portion and the glove body dorsal portion meet at a distal lateral edge; wherein a plurality of digital segments project from the distal lateral edge of the body forming a terminal edge, said distal lateral edge creating a plurality of individual digital ringlets such that a finger can extend past the terminal edge to completely expose a finger when the glove is worn; said terminal edge creating separate ringlets such that a thumb, a forefinger, a middle finger, and a ring finger can each individually extend past the terminal edge to completely expose the thumb, forefinger, middle finger, ring finger, and pinkie finger when the glove is worn.

20. The sports glove as claimed in claim 14, wherein said one large recess is on the middle of the palm area of the glove; and wherein said one opening second lower edge follows a thumb bulge crease of the wearer's hand when the glove is worn; and wherein said sports glove has open distal ends such that the wearer's thumb, ring finger, forefinger, middle finger, and pinkie finger are each exposed by the glove; and glove palmar top portion comprises of a grip-enhancing means comprising of a reinforced layer affixed to the glove body top portion; said reinforced layer being configured to create a higher coefficient of friction than a surrounding glove palmar portion, thereby increasing the grip capabilities of the wearer along said palmar portion when the glove is worn; wherein said grip enhancing means is adapted to not extend beyond said glove palmar top portion such that the remaining palmar portion is free of said grip enhancing means; wherein said one large recess extends to leave exposed only the middle of the wearer's palm defining a basketball shooter's gap region, and thereby allowing a wearer to focus attention on maintaining a shooter's gap region while shooting the basketball, and providing immediate feedback if the shooter's gap region is breached by allowing said basketball to touch the exposed shooter's gap region of the wearer's palm when the glove is worn.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWING

[0080] It is expressly understood that the following descriptions and drawing are for illustration purposes only, and in no way are intended to limit the scope of the present invention and its various embodiments. For example, the drawings are of drawings of embodiments for the right hand but can easily be created for the left hand, and can be used by men and women, boy and girls.

[0081] FIG. 1 is a drawing of a first embodiment, palmar side.

[0082] FIG. 2 is a drawing of a second embodiment, palmar side.

[0083] FIG. 3 is a drawing of a third embodiment, palmar side.

[0084] FIG. 4 is a drawing of a fourth embodiment, palmar side.

[0085] FIG. 5 is a drawing of a fifth embodiment, palmar side.

[0086] FIG. 6 is a drawing of a sixth embodiment, palmar side.

[0087] FIG. 7 is a related art drawing showing where the hand of a quarterback generally touches a football.

[0088] FIG. 8 is a related art drawing showing the three basic ways a golf club crosses the palm area of a golfer's hand.

[0089] FIG. 9 is another related art drawing showing locations where a basketball should touch the palm, from a referenced source.

[0090] FIG. 10 is a dorsal side drawing of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1.

[0091] FIG. 11 is a dorsal side drawing of the embodiment shown in FIG. 2.

[0092] FIG. 12 is a dorsal side drawing of the embodiment shown in FIG. 3.

[0093] FIG. 13 is a dorsal side drawing of the embodiment shown in FIG. 4.

[0094] FIG. 14 is a dorsal side drawing of the embodiment shown in FIG. 5.

[0095] FIG. 15 is a dorsal side drawing of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0096] It is expressly understood that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention.

[0097] In FIG. 1 & FIG. 10, the present invention is shown as a partial-fingered, partial-palm sports glove embodiment 1. The glove could be made of any appropriate materials aforementioned to offer moisture and perspiration resistance. The thumb is entirely covered by the glove thumb stall 9. The wearer's middle finger 11, ring finger 16 and pinkie finger 12 are each entirely uncovered by the glove.

[0098] Substantially the middle of the palm is uncovered 13 by providing only one large recess or opening that is adapted to extend substantially along the middle of the glove body palmar portion and enabling skin contact of the now exposed skin with a basketball when the glove is worn. The recess 13 extending over the wearer's palm leaves uncovered the center of the palm 100 and extends all the way down to the heel crease area 14. The recess narrows down 116 as it approaches the wrist crease 101 such that the width at the distal end is at least about half of the width than the width at the proximal end of the recess. This embodiment leaves only one large recess 13, which could be used particularly during drills, whereby even a slight violation can be felt through the exposed skin by allowing the basketball to touch the palm area the exposed palm skin. This embodiment has a palmar portion that is reinforced 105 with a second material such as a synthetic leather or a urethane material along the top portion 104 of the palmdefined as the metacarpophalangeal joints of the wearer's pinkie finger, ring finger, middle finger and forefinger 104thereby significantly increasing control of a basketball. The reinforced second material does extend beyond the top portion, and may also comprise of a grip-enhancing of materials forms and designs such as, but not limited to, grooves, foams, fabrics or combinations thereof, creating a higher coefficient of friction than the surrounding material forming the glove body palmar portion.

[0099] One of the surprising results of covering as well as reinforcing the top portion is that it will give the basketball player the ability to put more backspin on the basketball when shooting the basketball. More backspin would, of course, give the ball the ability of bouncing around the hoop if the basket is not initially made, and providing more of what is commonly known as a shooters touch. The ability of the wearer to have more backspin would be uniquely created by the glove palmar portion having a top portion that covers the metacarpophalangeal joints of the wearer's fingers in their entirety thus creating increased grip capabilities along the joints that can create the backspin.

[0100] The novel features of this embodiment allow a player to focus her attention on maintaining a shooter's gap while attempting a shot, and provides for instant feedback if said shooter's gap region is breached and the shot violates the shooter's gap and touches the open area of the palm exposed by the one large recess 13. The palmar (front) view of the glove 1 is drawn in FIG. 1 and the dorsal (back) view of the same glove is drawn in FIG. 10.

[0101] In more technical terms, the embodiment glove body has a palmar portion 106 that overlays the wearer's palm and a dorsal portion 107 that overlays the back of the wearer's hand. The glove body palmar portion 106 has only one large recess 13 that exposes a portion of the palm of substantial size to enable the exposed palm skin to touch a basketball when the glove is worn. The only one large recess 13 extending over the wearer's palm of the present invention does not extend to expose the metacarpophalangeal joint of the pinkie finger, the metacarpophalangeal joint of the ring finger, the metacarpophalangeal joint of the middle finger or the metacarpophalangeal joint of the forefingeralso known and defined as the top portion 104 of the glove palmar portion of the present invention. In addition, the only one large recess is positioned along the glove palmar portion such that it does not extend to expose the thumb metacarpal 108 when the glove is worn.

[0102] The only one large recess 13 is positioned to extend principally along the middle of the glove body palmar portion and is adapted to expose at least a substantial portion of the wearer's middle finger metacarpal 109 when the glove is worn. A portion of the wearer's ring finger metacarpal 110 is also exposed by the one large recess along the glove body palmar portion.

[0103] The one large recess thereby exposes the middle area of the wearer's palm and is of substantial size to allow the now exposed skin to touch a basketball when the glove is worn.

[0104] By enabling the skin of the wearer's middle area of the palm, the sports glove now, as aforementioned, provides for instant feedback if the shooter's gap is breached. The one large recess is the only recess of substantial size to enable skin contact of the wearer's palm by a basketball when the glove worn. The only one large recess may extend out to abut but does not essentially expose the thumb bulge 111 of the wearer's palm. The one large recess may extend out to abut but does not expose any of the wearer's pinkie metacarpophalangeal joint, ring metacarpophalangeal joint, middle finger metacarpophalangeal joint, forefinger metacarpophalangeal joint, and thumb metacarpophalangeal joint 104 when the glove is worn. The glove body palmar portion therefore overlays the thumb bulge 111 as well as the pinkie metacarpophalangeal joint, ring metacarpophalangeal joint, middle finger metacarpophalangeal joint, forefinger metacarpophalangeal joint, and thumb metacarpophalangeal joint 104 when the glove is worn.

[0105] The glove is significantly different than prior art because it provides a basketball player with a glove that offers, an immediate feedback mechanism. The glove provides this feedback mechanism by lessening the skin sensitivities outside of the shooter's gap region by covering it with the material forming the glove body, while relatively heightening the palm skin located on the shooter' gap region (principally along the middle of the palm) because of the open area caused by the only one large recess. The resulting tactile sensitivities differential creates an immediate feedback mechanism by making it possible to jeer when she is shooting a basketball using improper shooting form; if the basketball touches the skin of the palm (via the exposed palm) then that means she used improper form, but if the basketball did not touch the skin then proper shooting form was executed. Therefore, it is important that the one large recess not extend beyond the critical area of the shooter's gap region.

[0106] In order to perform the intended function it is critical that location and size of the one large recess be accurately considered. In other words, if the one large recess is not of substantial size for the now exposed palm skin to touch a basketball, the embodiment would be rendered unable to perform its intended function. The ability of the skin of the exposed area created by the one large recess allows the wearer to get immediate feedback by the heightened tactile sensitivities now that the basketball can directly touch the exposed skin of the middle of the palm.

[0107] Likewise, the one large recess cannot be significantly larger as it would also significantly diminish its unique capabilities captured from its unique combinations and synergies captured. For example, the strategically placed one large recess is such that the basketball should not touch the exposed skin unless the basketball has violated the shooter's gap region when preparing to shoot or when shooting the basketball. If the one large recess is substantially larger or positioned to extend along the wearer's metacarpophalangeal joints, then the basketball would touch the exposed skin even though the basketball is in fact being held and shot properly. Indeed, one of the surprising benefits of having immediate feedback has to do with heightened tactile sensitivities both because only a specific palm area is substantially exposed, as opposed to being covered by the glove material, and because the significant tactile differences between the exposed skin compared to the surrounding palm area, which is covered by the glove material (and thereby unable to touch the basketball); this major difference in tactile sensitivities make it possible to quickly sense if the basketball suddenly touches the exposed skin. Therefore, it is important that the one large recess not extend beyond the critical area or that there be more than a multiple large recesses of substantial size to enable skin contact of the wearer's palm with the basketball. Multiple large recesses of this size would cause unnecessary confusion as the wearer would no longer know based on tactile feel whether improper basketball shooting form was performed, thus significantly diminishing its intended function.

[0108] In fact, as aforementioned, it is important that the only one large recess not extend to expose any of the wearer's metacarpophalangeals when the glove is worn. The pinkie finger metacarpophalangeal and thumb metacarpophalangeal, for example, can play a major role when control and shooting a basketball so exposing the pinkie finger metacarpophalangeal or thumb metacarpophalangeal of the wearer's hand would substantially diminish the present invention's intended function.

[0109] The embodiment may further comprise micro recesses along the glove body palmar and dorsal portions, for moisture management purposes as long as, of course, these micro recesses are not of substantial size to enable skin contact with a basketball. These micro recesses are generally about 0.120 millimeters or so in diameter, but certainly not large enough to enable skin contact with a basketball as that would then make the embodiment unable to complete its intended function.

[0110] Furthermore, the one large recess is preferably also reinforced, preferably by stitching or by hot sealing 112. Constant movement of the wearer's hand increases stress on the integrity of the glove by the continual rubbing and twisting of the one recess when engaging and disengaging a basketball. Therefore the stitching can encircle the one large recess along its edge in order to be effective at preventing tearing along the one large recess. Additionally or alternatively, the one large recess may be sealed. When cutting certain materials such as synthetic materials including synthetic leather it is virtually impossible to keep the edges from fraying and splitting, or from allowing atmospheric moisture to enter into the material through the formed edges, thereby eroding and destroying the glove material. Therefore it is preferable that the one large recess edge be stitched or permanently sealed, preferably by hot knife sealing. The industrial hot knife is preferably used to melt the fabric edge of the one large recess such that the one large recess is sealed thereby preventing fraying, fabric splitting, and atmospheric moisture from entering into the glove body material through the one recess. If the one large recess is not sealed this portion may fray or split eroding the integrity of the glove structure and its valuable and unique benefits to the wearer. Hot knife sealing will also create a smooth finish along the entire one large recess edge. Hot knife sealing can only be performed on certain materials such as synthetic leathers and plastics otherwise the material will burn and cause harm to the glove structure. Cotton material for example will burn and therefore hot knife sealing cannot be performed on that type of material in which case stitching may be more appropriate. Natural materials such as cotton and genuine leather will not hot knife seal well, burning the material and often destroying the glove. It is therefore preferable that at least the materials forming the one large recess edge be formed of an appropriate material and considered.

[0111] If the glove body is formed of a rubber or neoprene material, then fraying may not be an issue or course and may not need reinforcement.

[0112] In addition, the embodiment has a highlighted area 113 along the perimeter 114 of the one large recess so that trainers can more easily see if a shooting violation is taking place. Preferably the entire perimeter of the one large recess is highlighted with a bright material or coating, such as a fluorescent coating 115, in order to be capable of being seen from a distance when a basketball is being properly held on the wearer's shooting hand when the glove is worn. The one large recess narrows down 116 as it approaches the wrist crease 101 so that it has a smaller width at the distal end 117 compared to at the proximal end 118. As such, the fluorescent portion, for example, can follow along in the same or generally similar pattern as long as it is near to the one large recess to thereby highlight the exposed area.

[0113] Additional descriptions of this embodiment, including glove body dorsal portion elements are provided in the description of FIG. 10 of this specification.

[0114] In FIG. 2 & FIG. 11, the present invention is shown as a partial-palm glove 2. This embodiment can be made of polyester and cotton for superior comfort, of perspirant-resistant materials such as spandex, or of weather-resistant and perspirent-resistant forms and designs including water-resistant materials 224 such as a polyurethane or hole designs for moisture management, or combinations thereof, or of other standard materials such as those aforementioned. The glove is configured such that the wearer's thumb 20 and forefinger 23 are each entirely uncovered by the glove. In other words, the distal and proximal phalanges of the wearer's thumb are all exposed, and the distal, middle and proximal phalanges of the wearer's forefinger are entirely exposed when the glove is worn. In addition, the middle finger 21 and ring finger 26 are all also essentially completely uncovered when the glove is worn. The glove is further configured such that the middle area of the palm 22 is open by only one large recess extending along the glove body palmar portion 231. The one large recess 230 is substantially on the middle of the palm area 22, having a radius of up to about one inch, for example, thereby defining the boundary of the palm opening substantially on the middle of the wearer's palm. Similar embodiments could range from 0.5 to 1.25 approximately inches in radius. This embodiment could be used in actual basketball game play, where the player would be alerted if she or he was using severe improper form by providing the exposed palm portion along the wearer's hand.

[0115] Furthermore, the embodiment may have a grip enhancing means or be reinforced by a second material across the top portion of the glove body palmar portion, or both, to increase grip and minimize erosion along the top of the wearer's palm. The grip enhancing means are adapted to provide a higher coefficient of friction than the surrounding glove body surface. For example, the embodiment has a palmar portion that is reinforced 269 with a second material such as a synthetic leather or a rubber material along the top portion of the palmdefined as the metacarpophalangeal joints of the wearer's pinkie finger, ring finger, middle finger and forefingerthereby significantly increasing control of a basketball. The reinforced layer is further coated with a grip enhancing means, such as a PVC coating, a latex coating or a silicone coating 269 creates a higher coefficient of friction than the surrounding glove body palmar portion, thereby increasing the grip capabilities of the wearer along said palmar top portion when the glove is worn. The grip enhancing means is adapted to not extend beyond said glove palmar top portion so that the remaining palmar portion is free of said grip enhancing means. The glove may also comprise of other grip-enhancing of materials forms and designs such as grooves, foams, fabrics or combinations thereof, creating a higher coefficient of friction than the surrounding material forming the glove body palmar portion.

[0116] The one large recess is circular in shape 234 having a proximal edge and a distal edge, the proximal edge is adapted to abut but not expose a top portion of the wearer's palm, thereby not exposing the wearer's metacarpophalangeal joints of the wearer's pinkie finger, ring finger, middle finger or forefinger when the glove is worn. The one large recess is the only large recess along the glove body palmar portion of substantial size to enable the wearer's palm to touch a basketball with the skin of the skin when the glove is worn.

[0117] This embodiment is useful with actual game play by its unique glove structure by exposing a critical portion of the middle of the wearer's palm as well as by exposing the wearer's finger tips. In other words, at least the distal phalanx of the pinkie finger, at least the distal phalanx of the ring finger, and at least the distal phalanx of the middle finger are each completely exposed when the glove is worn.

[0118] The palmar (front) view of the glove 2 is drawn in FIG. 2 and the dorsal (back) view of the same glove is drawn in FIG. 11. In more technical terms, the embodiment glove body has a palmar portion 231 that overlays the wearer's palm and a dorsal portion 232 that overlays the back of the wearer's hand. The glove body palmar portion has only one large recess 230 that exposes a portion of the palm of substantial size to enable the exposed palm skin to touch a basketball when the glove is worn. The only one large recess extending over the wearer's palm of the present invention does not extend to expose the metacarpophalangeal joint of the pinkie finger, the metacarpophalangeal joint of the ring finger, the metacarpophalangeal joint of the middle finger or the metacarpophalangeal joint of the forefingeralso known and defined as the top portion 233 of the glove body palmar portion of the present invention. In addition, the only one large recess is positioned along the glove palmar portion such that it does not extend to expose the thumb metacarpal 235 when the glove is worn.

[0119] The only one large recess 230 of the embodiment is positioned to extend principally along the middle of the glove body palmar portion and is adapted to expose at least a substantial portion of the wearer's middle finger metacarpal 263 when the glove is worn. A portion of the wearer's ring finger metacarpal 237 is also exposed by the one large recess along the glove body palmar portion. The one large recess thereby exposes the middle area of the wearer's palm and is of substantial size to allow the now exposed skin to touch a basketball when the glove is worn.

[0120] By exposing the skin of the wearer's middle area of the palm, the sports glove now, as aforementioned, provides for instant feedback if the shooters gap is breached. The one large recess is the only recess of substantial size to enable skin contact of the wearer's palm when the glove worn. The only one large recess may extend out to abut but does not essentially expose the thumb bulge 280 of the wearer's palm, certainly not exposing any portion of the thumb metacarpal. The one large recess may extend out to abut but does not expose any of the wearer's pinkie metacarpophalangeal joint, ring metacarpophalangeal joint, middle finger metacarpophalangeal joint, forefinger metacarpophalangeal joint, and thumb metacarpophalangeal joint 233 when the glove is worn. The glove body palmar portion therefore overlays the thumb bulge as well as the pinkie metacarpophalangeal joint, ring metacarpophalangeal joint, middle finger metacarpophalangeal joint, forefinger metacarpophalangeal joint, and thumb metacarpophalangeal joint when the glove is worn.

[0121] The glove is significantly different than prior art because it provides a basketball player with a glove that offers an immediate feedback mechanism. The glove provides this feedback mechanism by lessening the skin sensitivities outside of the shooter's gap region by covering it with the material forming the glove body, while relatively heightening the palm skin sensitivities located within the shooter' gap region (principally along the middle of the palm) because of the open area caused by the only one large recess. The resulting tactile sensitivities differential creates an immediate feedback mechanism by making it possible to feel when she is shooting a basketball using improper shooting form; if the basketball touches the skin of the palm (via the exposed palm) then that means she used improper form, but if the basketball did not touch the skin then proper form was executed. Therefore, it is important that the one large recess not extend beyond the critical area of the shooter's gap region.

[0122] In order to perform the intended function it is critical that location and size of the one large recess be accurately considered. In other words, if the one large recess is not of substantial size for the now exposed palm skin to touch a basketball, the embodiment would be rendered unable to perform its intended function. The ability of the skin of the exposed area created by the one large recess allows the wearer to get immediate feedback by the heightened tactile sensitivities now that the basketball can directly touch the exposed skin of the middle of the palm.

[0123] Likewise, the one large recess cannot be significantly larger as it would also significantly diminish its unique capabilities captured from its unique combinations and synergies captured. For example, the strategically placed one large recess is such that the basketball should not touch the exposed skin unless the basketball has violated the shooter's gap region when preparing to shoot or when shooting the basketball. If the one large recess is substantially larger or positioned to extend along the wearer's metacarpophalangeal joints, then the basketball would touch the exposed skin even though the basketball is in fact being held and shot properly. Indeed, one of the surprising benefits of having immediate feedback has to do with heightened tactile sensitivities both because only a specific palm area is substantially exposed, as opposed to being covered by the glove material, and because the significant tactile differences between the exposed skin compared to the surrounding palm area, which is covered by the glove material (and thereby unable to touch the basketball); this major difference in tactile sensitivities make it possible to quickly sense if the basketball suddenly touches the exposed skin.

[0124] In fact, as aforementioned, it is important that the only one large recess not extend to expose any of the wearer's metacarpophalangeals when the glove is worn. The pinkie finger metacarpophalangeal and thumb metacarpophalangeal, for example, can play a major role when control and shooting a basketball so exposing the pinkie finger metacarpophalangeal or thumb metacarpophalangeal of the wearer's hand would substantially diminish the present invention's intended function.

[0125] An additional surprising result resulting from the unique structure of the embodiment is that the glove will give the basketball player the ability to put more backspin on the basketball when shooting the basketball. More backspin would, of course, give the ball the ability of bouncing around the hoop if the basket is not initially made, and providing more of what is commonly known as a shooters touch. The ability of the wearer to have more backspin would be uniquely created by the glove palmar portion having a top portion that covers the metacarpophalangeal joints of the wearer's fingers in their entirety thus creating increased grip capabilities along the joints that can create the backspin.

[0126] The embodiment may further comprise micro recesses along the glove body palmar and dorsal portions, for moisture management purposes as long as, of course, these micro recesses are not of substantial size to enable skin contact with a basketball. These micro recesses are generally about 0.120 millimeters or so in diameter, but certainly not large enough to enable skin contact with a basketball as that would then make the embodiment unable to complete its intended function.

[0127] Furthermore, the one large recess is preferably also reinforced, preferably by stitching 238 or by hot sealing. Constant movement of the wearer's hand increases stress on the integrity of the glove by the continual rubbing and twisting of the one recess when engaging and disengaging a basketball. Therefore the stitching can encircle the one large recess along its edge in order to be effective at preventing tearing along the one large recess. Additionally or alternatively, the one large recess may be sealed. When cutting certain materials such as synthetic materials including synthetic leather it is virtually impossible to keep the edges from fraying and splitting, or from allowing atmospheric moisture to enter into the material through the formed edges, thereby eroding and destroying the glove material. Therefore it is preferable that the one large recess edge be stitched or permanently sealed, preferably by hot knife sealing. The industrial hot knife is preferably used to melt the fabric edge of the one large recess such that the one large recess is sealed thereby preventing fraying, fabric splitting, and atmospheric moisture from entering into the glove body material through the one recess. If the one large recess is not sealed this portion may fray or split eroding the integrity of the glove structure and its valuable and unique benefits to the wearer. Hot knife sealing will also create a smooth finish along the entire one large recess edge. Hot knife sealing can only be performed on certain materials such as synthetic leathers and plastics otherwise the material will burn and cause harm to the glove structure. Cotton material for example will burn and therefore hot knife sealing cannot be performed on that type of material in which case stitching may be more appropriate. Natural materials such as cotton and genuine leather will not hot knife seal well, burning the material and often destroying the glove. It is therefore preferable that at least the materials forming the one large recess edge be formed of an appropriate material. If the glove body is formed of a rubber or neoprene material, then fraying may not be an issue or course.

[0128] In addition, the embodiment has a highlighted area 239 along the perimeter of the one large recess so that trainers can more easily see if a shooting violation is taking place while she shoots the ball. Preferably the entire perimeter of the one large recess is highlighted with a bright material or coating, such as a fluorescent coating 241, in order to be capable of being seen from a distance when a basketball is being properly held on the wearer's shooting hand when the glove is worn. The one large recess is circular in shape, such as an oval 242. As such, the fluorescent portion, for example, can follow along in the same or generally similar pattern as long as it is near to the one large recess to thereby highlight the exposed area.

[0129] The glove has an open end 244 at the wrist portion 243 of the glove. The open end is expansible so as to hold more securely to the wearer's wrist. The glove wrist dorsal portion has a strap means 246 for fastening the glove body secure about the wrist area, critical in sports activities where the wearer's hand moves very rapidly such as in basketball for example. The strap means may comprise two pads of cohesive-adhesive material such as VELCRO fasteners 247, 248, 249, 250 or other hook and loop structures, snap buttons for releasably securing the strap 251, for example, or other suitable closures thereon. For example, the strap means may comprise a flap which mechanically engages a flap capture mechanism to secure the glove to the wearers hand (e.g., a synthetic hook and loop fastening interface which adheres when pressed together, commonly using VELCRO). The strap means as well as the wrist portion may be sewn onto the glove, for example.

[0130] In basketball, it is becoming critical for players to be able to shoot the basketball from long distances, as shooting the basketball from the three point line is now commonplace for those playing the position of Guard as well as now for Forwards and even Centers. While aim is surely one important aspect of a successful three point shot, so is having stronger hand muscles. The embodiment provides a structural feature of a weight or weights 253, 254, 255, whereby the wearer can now strengthen hand muscles when the glove is worn. The at least one weight 253, 254, 255 may be constructed by any standard manner of making weights, such as made of iron for example. The at least one weight may be integral or manually removable 253, 254, 255 to the glove or using a compartment to hold the weights.

[0131] If the at least one weight is integral to the glove, then it is preferable that the embodiment further has an interior liner such that the at least one weight resides between the liner and the dorsal portion surface. In this way the wearer's skin will not touch and be cushioned by the liner 264. The liner material (or sleeve) may be comprised of standard lining materials, such as a smooth, flexible knitted fabric. The liner may also comprise of flexible and elastomeric material such as spandex or LYCRA. Other possible materials include a knit of polyester or simply the same material forming the glove. A soft cellular plastic could also be preferred. Additionally, the liner may provide added features to offer warmth and comfort such as by comprising of a fleece material, for example, especially useful when competing in harsher conditions or during extended practices on the golf range, for example. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many other implementations of liners are possible.

[0132] If the at least one weight is manually removable 253, 254, 255, the weights may be secured by any standard fastening means, such as by a compartment 256, by magnetism or snap fastening, for example. The illustrated embodiment shows a compartment 256 on the dorsal portion of the glove body. The compartment 256 secures the weights by multiple pads of cohesive-adhesive material such as VELCRO fasteners 257, 258, by snap buttons, zippers 259, or other hook and loop structures for releasably securing a flap 260 such as by providing a flap 260 with a flap capture mechanism such as a hookable device such as a plastic bar 281 for example, and VELCRO 257, 258, along with a reinforced zipper mechanism 259 to enclose the weights in the compartment. The compartment of course must be of substantial size to enclose at least one weight in the compartment. The compartment 256 may be structured by any standard manner and can be constructed by any suitable materials, such as by the materials forming the glove embodiment, such as synthetic leather or Nylon, for example.

[0133] As the weights on the glove will increase the stress of movement, the embodiment has a strap means 246 for fastening the glove body secure about the wrist area whereby the strap is of substantial size to wrap around the entire wrist of the wearer when the glove is worn. The result of this unique feature reinforces the glove onto the wearer's hand and minimizes separation between the glove and the wearer's hand when dribbling or shooting a basketball. In other words, the extended strap has a structure that manually extends to overlay the glove body wrist portion palmar and dorsal portions. The extended strap preferably has hook and loop structure fastening interfaces 248, 249, 250 which adheres when pressed together, commonly using VELCRO on the front and back surfaces of the extended strap.

[0134] The glove body dorsal portion also has a slit 261. The slit allows the wearer to quickly take off or put on the glove, and doing so very easily. The combined features of the slit with a strap means are especially valuable to wearers who play a sport of basketball for example, as they allow the wearer to quickly take off or put on the glove so as not to disrupt the athlete's concentration, and doing so very easily. The strap is positioned to extend manually over the slit.

[0135] The glove also has a distal lateral edge, wherein the glove body palmar portion and the glove body dorsal portion meet at the distal lateral edge. One or a plurality of digital segments may project from the distal lateral edge of the body. A terminal edge 270 is formed at the distal lateral edge creating individual digital ringlets 271, 272, 273, 274 such that a finger can extend past the terminal edge to completely expose the finger when the glove is worn. A terminal edge formed at the distal lateral edge of the embodiment creates separate ringlets 271, 272, 273, 274 such that a forefinger 23, a middle finger 21, and a ring finger 26 can each individually extend past the terminal edge to completely expose the forefinger, middle finger, ring finger, and pinkie finger when the glove is worn. Preferably, each ringlet is stitched or hot sealed to keep the embodiment from fraying.

[0136] In FIG. 3 & FIG. 12, the present invention is shown as an all open-fingered glove 3. The inside palm area is uncovered 31 and is a diamond shape 130, yet still substantially in the middle of the palm area of the wearer's hand when the glove is worn. It follows the edge of the thumb bulge but not on it 32. Furthermore, it is bounded by the palmar digital crease area 33 and the hypothenar eminence 34. In addition, it can have a highlighted area along the perimeter of the opening 35, so that trainers can more easily see if violation taking place, such as a fluorescent coating for example. This embodiment can further comprise of other various types of materials, forms, and designs aforementioned including stretch materials and designs, mesh fabrics, recycled and flexible materials, cottons, rayon, spandex, fleece, leathers and synthetic leathers, rubbers, plastics, polyester, or combinations thereof. This embodiment might be particularly attractive to the amateur and intermediate basketball players who want to ensure proper shooting form is being executed. Additionally, these players would also appreciate the grip enhancer capabilities having a grip enhancer 236 along the top portion 331 of the glove body palmar portion, where the basketball often touches the hand and is used to maneuver the basketball.

[0137] FIG. 4 & FIG. 13 show an embodiment as a partial-palmless glove 4. The embodiment glove body has a palmar portion that overlays the wearer's palm and a dorsal portion that overlays the back of the wearer's hand. The palmar (front) view of the glove is drawn in FIG. 4 and the dorsal (back) view of the same glove is drawn in FIG. 13.

[0138] The glove body palmar portion overlaying the wearer's palm has only one large recess 45 that exposes a portion of the palm to enable the exposed skin to touch a golf club when the glove is worn. The only one large recess is positioned near the edge 461 of the glove body palmar portion and is adapted to expose at least a portion of the pinkie finger metacarpal 447 when the glove is worn. The only one large recess extending over the wearer's palm of the embodiment does not extend to expose the metacarpophalangeal joint of the pinkie finger, the metacarpophalangeal joint of the ring finger, the metacarpophalangeal joint of the middle finger and the metacarpophalangeal joint of the forefingeralso known and defined as the top portion 445 of the glove palmar portion of the present invention. In addition, the only one large recess is positioned along the glove palmar portion such that it does not extend to expose the thumb metacarpal 446 to maintain necessary grip capabilities along the top portion while increasing tactile sensitivities along the palm during sports play.

[0139] The glove body palmar portion has only one large recess 45 that exposes a portion of the palm of substantial size to enable the exposed palm skin to touch a golf club when the glove is worn.

[0140] By exposing a substantial portion of the skin of the wearer's pinkie metacarpal area of the palm to allow skin contact with a golf club, the sports glove now, as aforementioned provides for instant feedback if the golf club substantial slips down the pinkie finger metacarpal during a golfer's downswing and the re by touching the exposed skin, indicating poor golf swing execution. This is primarily due to the heightened tactile sensitivity of the exposed skin relative to the surrounding palm area which is covered by the glove body. The one large recess is the only recess of substantial size to enable skin contact of the wearer's palm to touch a golf club when the glove worn.

[0141] The thumb 40, forefinger 41 and middle fingers 42 are essentially entirely covered when the glove is worn. The ring finger 43 and pinkie finger 44 are also completely covered when the glove is worn. Furthermore, the palm is partially open 45 with one large recess 45 of substantial size to enable the exposed skin by the recess to touch a golf club if the golf club moves during a golf swing. This embodiment is especially valuable to those golfers who grip a golf club positioned along the N path 82 as shown in FIG. 8, and as previously discussed. Note that the top of the grip 200 lies above the hypothenar muscle bulge and that it lies in the lower palm between the hypothenar eminence 441 and the base of the middle finger 442. Note that the grip also lies diagonally across the lower palm so that it crosses the proximal phalanx of the middle finger. When the fingers are closed around the golf club handle, three fingers (middle finger, ring finger and pinkie finger) of the non-dominant handthe non-dominant hand(3rd, 4th, 5th fingers) are primarily responsible for gripping the club grip firmly in the left hand. The index finger lies more loosely across the grip. One should remember that the non-dominant hand golf grip is primarily a three-finger grip, and not a palm grip. The non-dominant 3rd, 4th and 5th fingers are primarily responsible for gripping the club, and the grip pressure should be firmit should not be possible to pull the grip end of the club out of the non-dominant hand if another person pulls on the club head end of the club, and it should not be possible for that person to twist the club in one's one-dominant hand if he attempts to twist the club head end of the club. A golfer must maintain a solid hand grip (using the dominant 3rd, 4th and 5th fingers) should always be firm. The one large recess is positioned along the glove body palmar portion such that it resides below the golf club positioned below the N path. The wearer would then immediately feel if the golf club slipped below the N path position during the golf downswing, indicating poor swing fundamentals.

[0142] The embodiment can comprise of various a weather-resistant and perspirant-resistant materials, forms and designs including, but not limited to, water-resistant materials or hole designs for moisture management, or combinations thereof and aforementioned. A suitable material would be Cabretta leather, for example.

[0143] Referring more technically to the embodiment drawing, the palmar (front) view of the glove is drawn in FIG. 4 and the dorsal (back) view of the same glove is drawn in FIG. 13. This partial-palmless embodiment provides a glove body having a dorsal portion 440, a palmar portion 47 for overlaying respective back and palm regions of a human hand, said dorsal and palmar portions having distal and proximal ends with a plurality of digital segments (or stalls) projecting from said distal ends. A critical portion of the wearer's palm is open and therefore uncovered by the one large recess 45 when the glove is worn thereby exposing the skin and significantly increasing tactile sensations along the exposed palm area. The only one large recess is positioned near the edge of the glove palmar portion and is adapted to expose at least a portion of the pinkie finger metacarpal 447 when the glove is worn.

[0144] Preferably, a portion of the ring finger metacarpal 448 is also exposed by the one large recess.

[0145] The one large recess therefore extends to expose the lower palm, and is adapted to extend between the hypothenar eminence 441 and the base of the middle finger 442, thereby defining the boundary and location of the palm opening. The glove body includes a thumb digital segment 40, a forefinger digital segment 41 and a middle finger digital segment 42 that enclose and completely cover the wearer's thumb, forefinger and middle finger in their entirety, including enclosing the fingertips.

[0146] The only one large recess along the glove body palmar portion also certainly does not extend out to expose the thumb bulge 460 of the wearer's palm when the glove is worn, and is therefore completely covered by the glove body palmar portion. The only one large recess extends diagonally 459 across the glove body palmar portion.

[0147] The embodiment may also provide micro recesses 463 randomly disposed along the glove body dorsal portion, the palmar portion or the finger stalls, for ventilation as is standard in golf gloves. The micro recesses are generally about 0.120 millimeters or so in diameter, but certainly not large enough to enable skin contact with the golf club as that would then make the embodiment unable to complete its intended function.

[0148] The golf glove embodiment is significantly different than prior art because it provides a golfer with a glove that offers, among other things, an immediate feedback mechanism. The glove provides this feedback mechanism by lessening the skin sensitivities outside of the edge of the golf glove, or conversely, it heightens the exposed palm skin along the edge (because of the open and exposed area along and around the edge of the palm), creating an extreme difference in tactile sensitivities with the exposed palm edge relative to the surrounding area which is covered by the material forming the glove body. This, in turn, makes it possible to feel only if the individual is swinging the golf club using bad form; if the golf club touches the skin of the palm (via the exposed edge) then he used improper form but if the club did not touch the skin then proper form was executed. Therefore, it is important that the one large recess not extend beyond the critical area.

[0149] In order to perform the intended function it is critical that location and size of the one large recess be accurately considered. In other words, if the one large recess is not of substantial size for the now exposed palm skin to touch a golf club, the embodiment would be rendered unable to perform its intended function. The ability of the skin of the exposed area created by the one large recess allows the wearer to get immediate feedback by the heightened tactile sensitivities now that the golf club can directly touch the now exposed skin.

[0150] Likewise, the one large recess cannot be substantially larger as it would also significantly diminish its unique capabilities captured from its unique combinations and synergies captured. For example, the strategically placed one large recess is such that the golf club does not touch the exposed skin unless the golf club has moved down the palm of the wearer's hand during the golf swing. If the one large recess is substantially larger or positioned to extend along the wearer's metacarpophalangeal joints, then the golf club would touch the exposed skin even though the golf club is in fact being gripped properly. In fact, as aforementioned, it is important that the only one large recess not extend to expose any of the wearer's metacarpophalangeals when the glove is worn. The forefinger metacarpophalangeal and middle finger metacarpophalangeal, for example, often playa major role in weak hand grip and control, so exposing of portion of the forefinger metacarpophalangeal or middle finger metacarpophalangeal of the wearer's hand would therefore substantially diminish the wearer's ability to grip the golf club.

[0151] Indeed, one of the surprising benefits of having immediate feedback has to do with heightened tactile sensitivities both because only a specific palm area is substantially exposed, as opposed to being covered by the glove material, and because of the significant tactile differences between the exposed skin and the surrounding palm area which is covered by the glove material; this major difference in tactile sensitivities make it possible to quickly sense if the golf club suddenly touches the exposed skin. If the glove body palmar portion were to expose any of the metacarpophalangeal joints of the wearer's hand it would also diminish the embodiment's intended function and limit the wearer's ability to properly grip the golf club with the metacarpophalangeals as necessary.

[0152] Furthermore, the one large recess 45 is also preferably reinforced by stitching 449 or by hot sealing. Constant movement of the wearer's hand increases stress on the integrity of the glove by the continual rubbing and twisting of the one recess edge when engaging and disengaging a golf club. Therefore the stitching can encircle the one large recess along its edge in order to be effective at preventing tearing along the one large recess. Additionally, or alternatively, the one large recess may be sealed. When cutting certain materials such as synthetic materials including synthetic leather it is virtually impossible to keep the edges from fraying and splitting, or from allowing atmospheric moisture to enter into the material through the formed edges, thereby eroding and destroying the glove material. Therefore it is preferable that the one large recess edge be stitched or sealed, preferably by hot knife sealing. The industrial hot knife is preferably used to melt the fabric edge of the one large recess such that the one large recess are sealed thereby preventing fraying, fabric splitting, and atmospheric moisture from entering into the glove body material through the one recess. If the one large recess is not sealed or stitched this portion will likely fray or split eroding the integrity of the glove structure and its valuable and unique benefits to the wearer. Hot knife sealing will also create a smooth finish along the entire one large recess edge. Hot knife sealing can only be performed on certain materials such as synthetic leathers and plastics otherwise the material will burn and cause harm to the glove structure. Cotton material for example will burn and therefore hot knife sealing cannot be performed on that type of material. It is therefore preferable that at least the materials forming the one large recess edgethe areas sealedbe formed of an appropriate material, such as a synthetic material. Natural materials such as cotton and genuine leather will not hot knife seal well, burning the material and often destroying the glove.

[0153] The glove has an open end 450 at the wrist portion 451 of the glove. The open end is expansible so as to hold more securely to the wearer's wrist. The glove wrist dorsal portion has a strap means 452 for fastening the glove body secure about the wrist area, critical in sports activities where the wearer's hand moves very rapidly such as in golf for example. The strap means may comprise two pads of cohesive-adhesive material such as VELCRO fasteners 453, 454 or other hook and loop structures for releasably securing the strap, for example, or other structures aforementioned. For example, the strap means may comprise a flap 455 which mechanically engages a flap capture mechanism to secure the glove to the wearers hand (e.g., a synthetic hook and loop fastening interface which adheres when pressed together, commonly using VELCRO). The strap means as well as the wrist portion may be sewn onto the glove, for example.

[0154] The glove body dorsal portion also has a slit 456. The slit allows the wearer to quickly take off or put on the glove, and doing so very easily as is important especially in the sport of golf. The combined features of the slit with a strap means are especially valuable to wearers who play a sport of golf for example, as they allow the wearer to quickly take off or put on the glove so as not to disrupt the athlete's concentration, and doing so very easily. The strap is positioned to extend manually over the slit. In order to maximize securement of the embodiment around the wearer's hand an elastomeric band 462 is affixed around the glove wrist portion. The wrist portion may be formed integral with the glove or may be attached to the glove by standard methods, such as by sewing.

[0155] It is commonly known that wrist bands have been constructed with perspiration absorbing capabilities, allowing an athlete to wipe perspiration away from their face during competition. Where wrist bands are not commonly used, such as in golf play, the athletes are currently left deficient in this area unless they are handed a towel to wipe off the perspiration. As such, a moisture absorbent material 457 may be provided along the dorsal portion of embodiments allowing a wearer to wipe off perspiration commonly on a wearer's face during active sports play. The moisture absorbent material may be secured anywhere along the dorsal surface of the glove body. The moisture absorbent material may be formed of any moisture absorbent material aforementioned, such as, for example, about 1/12 inch terry cloth 458 or absorbent foam stitched onto the dorsal portion surface of the glove body.

[0156] FIG. 5 & FIG. 14 show another embodiment of the present invention 5. The embodiment has a palmar portion 59 overlaying the wearer's palm and has only one large recess 50 that exposes a portion of the palm of substantial size to enable the exposed skin to touch a golf club when the glove is worn. The only one large recess is positioned near the edge of the glove body palmar portion and is adapted to expose at least a portion of the pinkie finger metacarpal when the glove is worn. The only one large recess extending over the wearer's palm of the present invention does not extend to expose the metacarpophalangeal joint of the pinkie finger, the metacarpophalangeal joint of the ring finger, the metacarpophalangeal joint of the middle finger and the metacarpophalangeal joint of the forefingeralso known and defined as the top portion 545 of the glove palmar portion of the present invention. In addition, the only one large recess is positioned along the glove palmar portion such that it does not extend to expose the thumb metacarpal 546 when the glove is worn to thereby maintain necessary grip capabilities throughout the wearer's five metacarpophalangeals while increasing tactile sensitivities along the wearer's palm during sports play.

[0157] This embodiment is very useful especially for those wearers who grip the golf club along the D line 81, for example, which is represented in FIG. 8. All of the wearer's fingers are essentially completely covered by the glove. The glove palmar portion comprises a large recess opening 50 that is adapted to expose a specific and important portion of the wearer's palm when the glove is worn.

[0158] The glove embodiment can be made of any glove forming material aforementioned, such as Cabretta leather 52, for example, to offer moisture and perspiration resistance. The thumb, forefinger, middle finger, ring finger and pinkie finger of the wearer's hand are all entirely covered by the glove thumb stall 53, forefinger stall 54, middle finger stall 55, ring finger stall 56, and pinkie finger stall 57, respectively.

[0159] As aforementioned, the glove body palmar portion has a large recess opening 50 positioned such that it exposes the palm 51 of the wearer and is opened closely below the glove body palmar top portion, extending diagonally across the pinkie finger metacarpal and the ring finger metacarpal. A critical portion of the wearer's palm is exposed there by creating heightened tactile sensitivities along the exposed palm area.

[0160] The length of the palm opening extends essentially parallel but below the D path 151 as aforementioned, and can extend down up to 0.5 to an inch or so, the approximate diameter of a standard golf club shaft. The remaining portion of the wearer's palm is not exposed by the one large recess and is thus essentially covered by the glove body palmar portion including at least the majority of the wearer's hypothenar eminence 152 and is thus without said opening.

[0161] Continuing to describe the embodiment from a more technical perspective, the palmar (front) view of the glove embodiment is drawn in FIG. 5 and the dorsal (back) view of the same glove is drawn in FIG. 14. This partial-palm embodiment provides a glove having a dorsal portion 550, a palmar portion 59 for overlaying respective back and palm regions of a human hand, said dorsal and palmar portions having distal and proximal ends with a plurality of digital segments (or stalls) projecting from said distal ends. The glove includes a glove body having a dorsal portion covering the back of the hand, and a palmar portion covering substantially all of the palm or front of the hand. In the illustrated embodiment, the glove is constructed such that the thumb digital segment 53, the forefinger digital segment 54, the middle finger segment 55, the ring finger segment 56 and the pinkie finger digital segment 57 enclose the wearer's thumb, forefinger and middle finger in their entirety, including enclosing the fingertips of the thumb and fingers of the wearer's hand when the glove is worn.

[0162] The glove body palmar portion 59 has only one large recess 50 that exposes a portion of the palm of substantial size to enable the exposed palm skin to touch a golf club. As aforementioned, the only one large recess extending over the wearer's palm of the present invention does not extend to expose the metacarpophalangeal joint of the pinkie finger, the metacarpophalangeal joint of the ring finger, the metacarpophalangeal joint of the middle finger or the metacarpophalangeal joint of the forefingeralso known and defined as the top portion 545 of the glove palmar portion of the present invention. In addition, the only one large recess is positioned along the glove palmar portion such that it does not extend to expose the thumb metacarpal 546 when the glove is worn. The glove body palmar portion material thus overlays the entire top portion as well as the entire thumb metacarpal.

[0163] The only one large recess is further positioned near the edge of the glove palmar portion and is adapted to expose at least a portion of the pinkie finger metacarpal 547 when the glove is worn. At least a portion of the ring finger metacarpal 548 is also exposed by the one large recess.

[0164] By enabling the skin of the wearer's pinkie metacarpal & ring finger metacarpal areas of the palm, the sports glove now, as aforementioned, provides for instant feedback if the golf club substantial slips down the glove body palmar edge during a golfer's downswing, indicating poor golf swing execution. The one large recess is the only recess of substantial size to enable skin contact of the wearer's palm with a standard golf club when the glove worn.

[0165] The only one large recess also certainly does not extend out to expose the thumb bulge 525 of the wearer's palm when the glove is worn. The only one large recess extends 50 across the glove body palmar portion. Therefore, the material forming the glove body palmar portion also overlays and thereby covers the wearer's thumb bulge when the glove is worn. This is primarily due to the heightened tactile sensitivity of the exposed skin relative to the surrounding palm area which is covered by the glove body as the one large recess is the only recess of substantial size to enable skin contact of the wearer's palm to touch a golf club when the glove worn. By specifically positioning the one large recess as aforementioned, the wearer is able to immediately feel if the golf club slipped below the D path position during the golf downswing, indicating poor swing fundamentals.

[0166] The embodiment also provides micro recesses 563 randomly disposed along the glove body dorsal portion, the palmar portion or the finger stalls, for ventilation as is standard in golf gloves. These micro recesses are generally about 0.120 millimeters or so in diameter, but certainly not large enough to enable skin contact with the golf club as that would then make the embodiment unable to complete its intended function.

[0167] Golf glove embodiments are significantly different than prior art because they provide a golfer with a glove that offers, among other things, an immediate feedback mechanism. The glove provides this feedback mechanism by lessening the skin sensitivities outside of the edge of the golf glove, or conversely, it heightens the exposed palm skin along the edge (because of the open and exposed area along and around the edge of the palm), creating an extreme difference in tactile sensitivities with the exposed palm edge relative to the area surrounding the large recess which is covered by the material forming the glove body. This, in turn, makes it possible to feel only if the individual is swinging the golf club using bad form; if the golf club touches the skin of the palm (via the exposed edge) then he used improper form but if the club did not touch the skin then proper form was executed. Therefore, it is important that the one large recess not extend beyond the critical area.

[0168] In order for the embodiment to perform the intended function it is critical that location and size of the one large recess be accurately considered. In other words, if the one large recess is not of substantial size for the now exposed palm skin to touch a golf club, the embodiment would be rendered unable to perform its intended function. The ability of the skin of the exposed area created by the one large recess allows the wearer to get immediate feedback by the heightened tactile sensitivities now that the golf club can directly touch the now exposed skin.

[0169] Likewise, the one large recess cannot be substantially larger as it would also significantly diminish its unique capabilities captured from its unique combinations and synergies captured. For example, the strategically placed one large recess is such that the golf club does not touch the exposed skin unless the golf club has moved down the palm of the wearer's hand during the golf swing. If the one large recess is substantially larger or positioned to extend along the wearer's metacarpophalangeal joints, then the golf club would touch the exposed skin even though the golf club is in fact being gripped properly. Indeed, one of the surprising benefits of having immediate feedback has to do with heightened tactile sensitivities both because only a specific palm area is substantially exposed, as opposed to being covered by the glove material, and because of the significant tactile differences between the exposed skin and the surrounding palm area which is covered by the glove material; this major difference in tactile sensitivities make it possible to quickly sense if the golf club suddenly touches the exposed skin.

[0170] In fact, as aforementioned, it is important that the only one large recess not extend to expose any of the wearer's metacarpophalangeals when the glove is worn. The forefinger metacarpophalangeal, middle finger metacarpophalangeal, ring finger metacarpophalangeal and pinkie finger metacarpophalangeal for example, often playa major role in weak hand grip and control so exposing of portion of the metacarpophalangeals of the wearer's hand would therefore substantially diminish the present invention's intended function and limit the wearer's ability to properly grip the golf club with the metacarpophalangeals as necessary.

[0171] Furthermore, the one large recess 50 is also preferably reinforced by stitching 549 or by hot sealing. Constant movement of the wearer's hand increases stress on the integrity of the glove by the continual rubbing and twisting of the one recess edge when engaging and disengaging a golf club. Therefore the stitching can encircle the one large recess along its edge in order to be effective at preventing tearing along the one large recess. Additionally or alternatively, the one large recess may be sealed. When cutting certain materials such as synthetic materials including synthetic leather it is virtually impossible to keep the edges from fraying and splitting, or from allowing atmospheric moisture to enter into the material through the formed edges, thereby eroding and destroying the glove material. Therefore it is preferable that the one large recess edge be stitched or permanently sealed, preferably by hot knife sealing. The industrial hot knife is preferably used to melt the fabric edge of the one large recess such that the one large recess are sealed thereby preventing fraying, fabric splitting, and atmospheric moisture from entering into the glove body material through the one recess. If the one large recess is not sealed or stitched this portion will likely fray or split eroding the integrity of the glove structure and its valuable and unique benefits to the wearer. Hot knife sealing will also create a smooth finish along the entire one large recess edge. Hot knife sealing can only be performed on certain materials such as synthetic leathers and plastics otherwise the material will burn and cause harm to the glove structure. Cotton material for example will burn and therefore hot knife sealing cannot be performed on that type of material. It is therefore preferable that at least the materials forming the one large recess edgethe areas sealedbe formed of an appropriate material, such as a synthetic material. Natural materials such as cotton and genuine leather will not hot knife seal well, burning the material and often destroying the glove. It is therefore preferable that at least the materials forming the one large recess edge be formed of an appropriate material.

[0172] The glove has an open end 559 at the wrist portion 560 of the glove. The open end is expansible so as to hold more securely to the wearer's wrist. The glove wrist dorsal portion has a strap means 562 for fastening the glove body secure about the wrist area, critical in sports activities where the wearer's hand moves very rapidly such as in golf for example. The strap means may comprise two pads of cohesive-adhesive material such as VELCRO fasteners 553, 554 or other hook and loop structures for releasably securing the strap, for example, or other structures aforementioned. For example, the strap means may comprise a flap 555 which mechanically engages a flap capture mechanism to secure the glove to the wearers hand (e.g., a synthetic hook and loop fastening interface which adheres when pressed together, commonly using VELCRO). The strap means as well as the wrist portion may be sewn onto the glove, for example.

[0173] The glove body dorsal portion also has a slit 556. The slit allows the wearer to quickly take off or put on the glove, and doing so very easily as is important especially in the sport of golf. The combined features of the slit with a strap means are especially valuable to wearers who play a sport of golf for example, as they allow the wearer to quickly take off or put on the glove so as not to disrupt the athlete's concentration, and doing so very easily. The strap is positioned to extend manually over the slit. In order to maximize securement of the embodiment around the wearer's hand an elastomeric band 572 is affixed around the glove wrist portion. The wrist portion may be formed integral with the glove or may be attached to the glove by standard methods, such as by sewing.

[0174] The materials forming the illustrated embodiment comprise those discussed in reference to the present invention, such as primarily of a leather such as a synthetic leather. Likewise, any previously discussed methods of construction may be applied to this embodiment. This glove body dorsal portion also has a flexible material formed of a more elastic fiber such as spandex 557, along the metacarpophalangeal joints 558 of the wearer's forefinger, middle finger, ring finger and pinkie finger when the glove is worn. Providing a more flexible elastic material over the wearer's metacarpophalangeals allow the wearer to maximize her ability to flex her hand and grip a sports device such as a golf club.

[0175] FIG. 6 and FIG. 15 draw another embodiment of the present invention of a glove 7 with an opening along the palmar side of the glove. The palmar (front) view of this glove embodiment is drawn in FIG. 6 and the dorsal (back) view of the same glove is drawn in FIG. 15. This partialpalmless embodiment provides a glove having a dorsal portion 66, a palmar portion 67 for overlaying respective back and palm regions of a human hand, said dorsal and palmar portions having distal and proximal ends with a plurality of digital segments (or stalls) projecting from said distal ends.

[0176] The glove body palmar portion overlaying the wearer's palm has only one large recess 77 that exposes a portion of the palm that is of substantial size to enable the exposed skin to touch a golf club when the glove is worn. The only one large recess is positioned near the edge of the glove palmar portion and is adapted to expose at least a portion of the pinkie finger metacarpal 647 when the glove is worn. The only one large recess extending over the wearer's palm of the present invention does not extend to expose the metacarpophalangeal joint of the pinkie finger, the metacarpophalangeal joint of the ring finger, the metacarpophalangeal joint of the middle finger and the metacarpophalangeal joint of the forefingeralso known and defined as the top portion 645 of the glove palmar portion of the present invention. In addition, the only one large recess is positioned along the glove palmar portion such that it does not extend to expose the thumb metacarpal 646 when the glove is worn to thereby maintain necessary grip capabilities throughout the wearer's five metacarpophalangeals while increasing tactile sensitivities along the wearer's palm during sports play.

[0177] Preferably, a portion of the ring finger metacarpal 648 is also exposed by the one large recess.

[0178] The one large recess does not extend to expose the forefinger metacarpal or the thumb metacarpal. By enabling the skin of the wearer's pinkie metacarpal area of the palm, the sports glove now, as aforementioned, provides for instant feedback if the golf club substantial slips down the pinkie finger metacarpal during a golfer's downswing, indicating poor golf swing execution. The one large recess is the only recess of substantial size to enable skin contact of the wearer's palm with a golf club when the glove worn.

[0179] The only one large recess also certainly does not extend out to expose the thumb bulge 659 or so certainly does not extend to expose the thumb metacarpal 646 of the wearer's palm when the glove is worn. The only one large recess extends diagonally 660 across the glove body palmar portion.

[0180] By enabling the skin of the wearer's pinkie metacarpal area of the palm, the sports glove now, as aforementioned, provides for instant feedback if the golf club substantial slips down the glove body palmar edge during a golfer's downswing, indicating poor go If swing execution. The one large recess is the only recess of substantial size to enable skin contact of the wearer's palm with a standard golf club when the glove worn.

[0181] The only one large recess also certainly does not extend out to expose the thumb bulge 659 of the wearer's palm when the glove is worn. The only one large recess extends 77 across the glove body palmar portion. Therefore, the material forming the glove body palmar portion also overlays and thereby covers the wearer's thumb bulge when the glove is worn. This is primarily due to the heightened tactile sensitivity of the exposed skin relative to the surrounding palm area which is covered by the glove body as the one large recess is the only recess of substantial size to enable skin contact of the wearer's palm to touch a golf club when the glove worn. By specifically positioning the one large recess as aforementioned, the wearer is able immediately feel if the golf club slipped below the C path position during the golf downswing, indicating poor swing fundamentals.

[0182] This embodiment is especially useful for those uses who grip the golf club along the C path line 83 as represented in FIG. 8. This is also referred to as a mid-palmar grip pattern, because it runs across the middle of the wearer's palm, and it lies near the hypothenar eminence (heel pad) 661. The palm one large recess opening extends parallel to this path 660 but lies below it.

[0183] The glove includes a glove body whereby the thumb 61, forefinger 62 and middle finger 63 of the wearer's hand are all essentially completely covered when the glove is worn. The wearer's ring finger has its fingertip uncovered 64, therefore the wearer's distal phalanx is exposed. The wearer's pinkie finger top two joints are also uncovered 65, therefore the wearer's distal and middle phalanges are exposed. The glove body therefore includes a thumb stall 68, a forefinger stall 69, a middle finger stall 70, a ring finger stall 71, and a pinkie finger stall 72 each adapted to receive a thumb, forefinger, middle finger, ring finger, and pinkie finger respectively, therein.

[0184] In the illustrated embodiment, the glove is constructed such that the thumb stall, the forefinger stall and the middle finger stall enclose the wearer's thumb, forefinger and middle finger in their entirety, including enclosing the fingertips. In other words, the distal, middle and proximal phalanges of the wearer's thumb, forefinger and middle fingers are all completely covered when the glove is worn.

[0185] Additionally, the glove further comprises of ring finger stall 71 that is designed to expose the wearer's fingertip when the glove is worn. The ring finger stall is therefore designed to overlay the proximal and middle phalanges of the wearer's ring finger but leaves the distal phalanx (the fingertip) uncovered. Additionally, the glove further comprises of pinkie finger stall 72 that is designed to expose the wearer's top two joints 65 when the glove is worn. The pinkie finger stall is therefore designed to overlay the wearer's proximal phalanx when the glove is worn.

[0186] Golf glove embodiments are significantly different than prior art because they provide a golfer with a glove that offers, among other things, an immediate feedback mechanism. The glove provides this feedback mechanism by lessening the skin sensitivities outside of the edge of the golf glove, or conversely, it heightens the exposed palm skin along the edge (because of the open and exposed area along and around the edge of the palm), creating an extreme difference in tactile sensitivities with the exposed palm edge relative to the surrounding area which is covered by the material forming the glove body. This, in turn, makes it possible to feel only if the individual is swinging the golf club using bad form; if the golf club touches the skin of the palm (via the exposed edge) then he know he used improper form but if the club did not touch the skin then proper form was executed. Therefore, it is important that the one large recess not extend beyond the critical area.

[0187] In order to perform the intended function it is critical that location and size of the one large recess be accurately considered. In other words, if the one large recess is not of substantial size for the now exposed palm skin to touch a golf club, the embodiment would be rendered unable to perform its intended function. The ability of the skin of the exposed area created by the one large recess allows the wearer to get immediate feedback by the heightened tactile sensitivities now that the golf club can directly touch the now exposed skin.

[0188] Likewise, the one large recess cannot be substantially larger as it would also significantly diminish its unique capabilities captured from its unique combinations and synergies captured. For example, the strategically placed one large recess is such that the golf club does not touch the exposed skin unless the golf club has moved down the palm of the wearer's hand during the golf swing. If the one large recess is substantially larger or positioned to extend along the wearer's metacarpophalangeal joints, then the golf club would touch the exposed skin even though the golf club is in fact being gripped properly. Indeed, one of the surprising benefits of having immediate feedback has to do with heightened tactile sensitivities both because only a specific palm area is substantially exposed, as opposed to being covered by the glove material, and because of the significant tactile differences between the exposed skin and the surrounding palm area which is covered by the glove material; this major difference in tactile sensitivities make it possible to quickly sense if the golf club suddenly touches the exposed skin.

[0189] In fact, as aforementioned, it is important that the only one large recess not extend to expose any of the wearer's metacarpophalangeals when the glove is worn. The forefinger metacarpophalangeal and middle finger metacarpophalangeal, for example, often playa major role in weak hand grip and control so exposing of portion of the forefinger metacarpophalangeal or middle finger metacarpophalangeal of the wearer's hand would therefore substantially diminish the present invention's intended function and limit the wearer's ability to properly grip the golf club with the metacarpophalangeals as necessary. Likewise, it is therefore important to overlay all of the wearer's metacarpophalangeal joints when the glove is worn.

[0190] Furthermore, the one large recess 77 is also preferably reinforced by stitching or by hot sealing 649. Constant movement of the wearer's hand increases stress on the integrity of the glove by the continual rubbing and twisting of the one recess edge when engaging and disengaging a golf club. Therefore the stitching can encircle the one large recess along its perimeter edge in order to be effective at preventing tearing along the one large recess. Additionally or alternatively, the one large recess may be sealed. When cutting certain materials such as synthetic materials including synthetic leather it is virtually impossible to keep the edges from fraying and splitting, or from allowing atmospheric moisture to enter into the material through the formed edges, thereby eroding and destroying the glove material. Therefore it is preferable that the one large recess edge be stitched or permanently sealed, preferably by hot knife sealing. The industrial hot knife is preferably used to melt the fabric edge of the one large recess such that the one large recess are sealed thereby preventing fraying, fabric splitting, and atmospheric moisture from entering into the glove body material through the one recess. If the one large recess is not sealed or stitched this portion may fray or split eroding the integrity of the glove structure and its valuable and unique benefits to the wearer. Hot knife sealing will also create a smooth finish along the entire one large recess edge. Hot knife sealing can only be performed on certain materials such as synthetic leathers and plastics otherwise the material will burn and cause harm to the glove structure. Cotton material for example will burn and therefore hot knife sealing cannot be performed on that type of material. It is therefore preferable that at least the materials forming the one large recess edgethe areas sealedbe formed of an appropriate material, such as a synthetic material. Natural materials such as cotton and genuine leather will not hot knife seal well, burning the material and often destroying the glove. It is therefore preferable that at least the materials forming the one large recess edge be formed of an appropriate material.

[0191] The embodiment may also provide micro recesses 663 randomly disposed along the glove body dorsal portion, the palmar portion or the finger stalls, for ventilation as is standard in golf gloves. The micro recesses are generally about 0.120 millimeters or so in diameter, but certainly not large enough to enable skin contact with the golf club as that would then make the embodiment unable to complete its intended function.

[0192] The glove has an open end 650 at the wrist portion 651 of the glove. The open end is expansible so as to hold more securely to the wearer's wrist. The glove wrist dorsal portion has a strap means 652 for fastening the glove body secure about the wrist area, critical in sports activities where the wearer's hand moves very rapidly such as in golf for example. The strap means may comprise two pads of cohesive-adhesive material such as VELCRO fasteners 653, 654 or other hook and loop structures for releasably securing the strap, for example, or other structures aforementioned. For example, the strap means may comprise a flap 655 which mechanically engages a flap capture mechanism to secure the glove to the wearers hand (e.g., a synthetic hook and loop fastening interface which adheres when pressed together, commonly using VELCRO). The strap means as well as the wrist portion may be sewn onto the glove, for example.

[0193] In order to maximize securement of the embodiment around the wearer's hand an elastomeric band 662 is affixed around the glove wrist portion. The wrist portion may be formed integral with the glove or may be attached to the glove by standard methods, such as by sewing.

[0194] The glove body dorsal portion also has a slit 656. The slit allows the wearer to quickly take off or put on the glove, and doing so very easily. The combined features of the slit with a strap means are especially valuable to wearers who play a sport of golf for example, as they allow the wearer to quickly take off or put on the glove so as not to disrupt the athlete's concentration, and doing so very easily. The strap is positioned to extend manually over the slit.

[0195] The materials forming the illustrated embodiment comprise those discussed in reference to the present invention, such as primarily of a leather or synthetic leather. Likewise, any previously discussed methods of construction may be applied to this embodiment. This glove body dorsal portion may provide a flexible material formed of a more elastic fiber such as spandex 657, along the metacarpophalangeal joints 658 of the wearer's forefinger, middle finger, ring finger and pinkie finger when the glove is worn. Providing a more flexible elastic material over the wearer's metacarpophalangeals allow the wearer to maximize her ability to flex her hand and grip a sports device such as a golf club.

[0196] FIG. 7 is a related art drawing showing where the hand of a quarterback generally touches a football. The shaded areas 160 designate where the football is supposed to touch a quarterbacks throwing hand. Providing an opening below the palmar digital crease area 161 by positioning a large recess along the middle of the glove body palmar portion but below the top portion would therefore provide significant feel opportunities with the standard football grip by increasing grip along the important palmar top portion while maintaining heightened tactile sensitivities along the middle of the wearer's palm.

[0197] FIG. 8 is a related art drawing showing the three basic ways a golf club crosses the palm area of a wearer. The D line represents what is called a distance grip pattern. This grip pattern is often described as a finger grip pattern. As the title suggests, this grip is maintained on and just below the fingers. The N line represents what is called a neutral grip pattern. It is also called a low palmar grip pattern, because the grip lies across the low palm, and it is just above the hypothenar eminence area 141. The C line represents what is called a control grip pattern. It is also referred to as a mid-palmar grip pattern, because it runs across the middle of the left palm around the hypothenar eminence 141. The drawing replicates the drawing offered by Jeffrey Mann (2010), A Perfect Golf Swing Review.

[0198] FIG. 9 is a replication of a drawing on page 81 of the referenced literature book: Play Better Basketball, by Pruitt (1982). The rendering illustrates locations where a basketball should touch the palm and where the basketball should not when properly shooting a basketball. The shaded areas 901 represent where the basketball should touch the palm of the shooting hand; all other areas of the palm should therefore not touch the basketball. Clearly, the metacarpophalangeal of the forefinger 902, the metacarpophalangeal of the middle finger 903, the metacarpophalangeal of the ring finger 904, and the metacarpophalangeal of the pinkie finger 905 touch the basketball when properly shooting the basketball. In addition, the thumb bulge 906 also touches the basketball when shooting the basketball. In contrast, the middle of the shooter's palm 907 does not touch the basketball when shooting the basketball using proper shooting form.

[0199] FIG. 10 is the dorsal (back) view of embodiment 1, and the palmar view of the same embodiment is shown in FIG. 1. This partial-fingered embodiment provides a glove having a dorsal portion 107, a palmar portion 106 for overlaying respective back and palm regions of a human hand, said dorsal and palmar portions having distal and proximal ends with a plurality of digital segments (or stalls) projecting from said distal ends. Additionally, two separate openings or ringlets 120, 121 are provided on said distal ends, such that a wearer's ring finger 16 and pinkie finger 12 may individually extend through said glove and expose the entire ring finger and pinkie finger when the glove is worn. The glove includes a glove body having a dorsal portion covering the back of the hand and a palmar portion covering substantially all of the palm or front of the hand. The glove body includes a thumb stall 9 each adapted to receive a thumb, therein. In the illustrated embodiment, the glove is constructed such that the thumb digital segment 9 encloses the wearer's thumb, in its entirety, including enclosing the fingertip. The glove does not comprise of finger stalls for a wearer's ring finger or pinkie finger. The distal ends of the dorsal portion 107 and palmar portion 106 of the glove body further provides two separate finger openings (or ringlets) 121, 120, where the wearer's ring finger and pinkie finger may extend through said glove body and thereby being completely uncovered by said glove body.

[0200] Therefore, the ring finger and pinkie fingers are both all completely uncovered when the glove is worn. In other words, the distal, middle and proximal phalanges of the wearer's ring and pinkie fingers are completely exposed.

[0201] The glove therefore also has a distal lateral edge, wherein the glove body palmar portion and the glove body dorsal portion meet at a distal lateral edge. One or more digital segments may project from the distal lateral edge of the body. A terminal edge 119 is formed at the distal lateral edge creating one or more of the individual digital ringlets 120, 121 such that a finger can extend past the terminal edge to completely expose the finger when the glove is worn. The terminal edge formed at the distal lateral edge of the embodiment create the separate ringlets 120, 121 on said distal ends such that a wearer's ring finger 16 and pinkie finger 12 individually extend through said glove and expose the entire ring finger and pinkie finger when the glove is worn.

[0202] The glove is therefore constructed such that the thumb digital segment 9 encloses the wearer's thumb in its entirety, including enclosing the fingertip. The glove therefore does not comprise of finger stalls for a wearer's ring finger or middle finger.

[0203] The glove has an open end at the wrist portion 123 of the glove. The open end 124 is expansible so as to hold more securely to the wearer's wrist. The glove wrist dorsal portion 125 has a strap means 126 for fastening the glove body secure about the wrist area, critical in sports activities where the wearer's hand moves very rapidly such as in basketball for example. The strap means may comprise two pads of cohesive-adhesive material such as VELCRO fasteners 127, 128 or other hook and loop structures for releasably securing the strap, for example, or other structures aforementioned. For example, the strap means may comprise a flap 129 which mechanically engages a flap capture mechanism to secure the glove to the wearers hand (e.g., a synthetic hook and loop fastening interface which adheres when pressed together, commonly using VELCRO). The strap means as well as the wrist portion may be sewn onto the glove, for example.

[0204] The glove body dorsal portion also has a slit 140. The slit allows the wearer to quickly take off or put on the glove, and doing so very easily. The combined features of the slit with a strap means are especially valuable to wearers who play a sport of basketball for example, as they allow the wearer to quickly take off or put on the glove so as not to disrupt the athlete's concentration, and doing so very easily. The strap is positioned to extend over the slit.

[0205] It is commonly known that wrist bands have been constructed with perspiration absorbing capabilities, allowing an athlete to wipe perspiration away from their face during competition such as in basketball. However, as a basketball player is constantly moving her hand and wrist during play, the wrist bands often move up the wearer's wrists and can thus disturb the basketball player's focus during play. As such, a moisture absorbent material is provided along the glove body dorsal portion allowing the wearer to wipe off perspiration commonly on a wearer's face during active sports play. The moisture absorbent material may be secured anywhere along the dorsal surface of the glove body, preferably along the middle of the glove body dorsal portion 134, along the glove body dorsal portion overlaying the forefinger metacarpal 131, or both. The moisture absorbent material 132 may be formed of any moisture absorbent material aforementioned, such as, for example, about 1/12 inch terry cloth 133 or so, or an absorbent foam stitched onto the dorsal portion surface of the glove body.

[0206] As aforementioned, the glove may made of any appropriate materials aforementioned to offer moisture and perspiration resistance. Such as the glove body dorsal portion formed primarily of a polyester fiber while the glove body palmar portion formed primarily of a polyester & polyurethane combination, and may be coated with a silicone to increase grip if preferable.

[0207] FIG. 12 is the dorsal (back) view of embodiment 3, and the palmar (front) view of the same embodiment is shown in FIG. 3. This partial-palm embodiment provides a glove having a dorsal portion 38, a palmar portion 37 for overlaying respective back and palm regions of a human hand. In the illustrated embodiment, the glove is constructed such that the wearer's forefinger is uncovered 135, the wearer's middle finger is uncovered 136, the wearer's ring finger is uncovered 137 and the wearer's pinkie finger is uncovered 138 when the glove is worn. In addition, this embodiment provides a grip enhancer along the top portion 331 of the glove body palmar portion.

[0208] More specifically, the grip-enhancing means of this embodiment is adapted to overlay the metacarpophalangeal joints of the wearer's forefinger, middle finger, ring finger and pinkie finger 331 when the glove is worn. The textured grip-enhancing means 236 does not extend beyond said metacarpophalangeal joints thereby leaving the rest of the palm free of said grip enhancing means. The grip enhancing means may comprise of a plurality of projections 336, such as PVC dots for example. Providing a grip enhancing means along this portion of the palm will significantly enhance grip capabilities for the wearer, and leaving the rest of the palm portion free of the grip enhancing means will allow the rest of the palm to more easily flex and stretch by not being burdened by the added texturing.

[0209] As aforementioned, the glove has one discreet opening created by one large recess 31, and this one opening is adapted to extend substantially in a middle of the palmar portion of the glove and is substantially in the middle of the glove palmar portion, positioned such that it exposes the middle of the wearer's palm when the glove is worn. The one large recess opening follows the edge of the thumb bulge but not on it 32. It is extremely important that the one palm opening of the embodiment is positioned to expose substantially only the middle of the wearer's palm and of a size such that it enables the skin of the wearer's palm to touch a basketball when the glove is worn, while simultaneously providing added grip along the thumb bulge by covering it.

[0210] The only one large recess along the glove body palmar portion is positioned principally along the middle of the glove palmar portion thereby exposing a substantial portion of the wearer's middle finger metacarpal when the glove is worn. The only one large recess extending over the wearer's palm of the present invention does not extend to expose the metacarpophalangeal joint of the pinkie finger, the metacarpophalangeal joint of the ring finger, the metacarpophalangeal joint of the middle finger and the metacarpophalangeal joint of the forefingeralso known and defined as the top portion 331 of the glove palmar portion of the present invention. In addition, the only one large recess is positioned along the glove palmar portion such that it does not extend to expose the thumb metacarpal when the glove is worn. Therefore, the glove body palmar portion overlays the entire pinkie finger metacarpophalangeal joint, the entire ring finger metacarpophalangeal joint, the entire middle finger metacarpophalangeal joint, and the entire forefinger metacarpophalangeal of the wearer's hand 331 Additionally, the glove body palmar portion overlays the thumb bulge 32 including the entire thumb metacarpal of the wearer's hand when the glove is worn.

[0211] The glove is significantly different than prior art because it provides a basketball player with a glove that offers, an immediate feedback mechanism. The glove provides this feedback mechanism by lessening the skin sensitivities outside of the shooter's gap region by covering it with the material forming the glove body, while relatively heightening the palm skin located on the shooter' gap region (principally along the middle of the palm) because of the open area caused by the only one large recess. The resulting tactile sensitivities differential creates an immediate feedback mechanism by making it possible to feel when she is shooting a basketball using improper shooting form; if the basketball touches the skin of the palm (via the exposed palm) then that means she used improper form, but if the basketball did not touch the skin then proper form was executed. Therefore, it is important that the one large recess not extend beyond the critical area of the shooter's gap region.

[0212] In order to perform the intended function it is critical that location and size of the one large recess be accurately considered. In other words, if the one large recess is not of substantial size for the now exposed palm skin to touch a basketball, the embodiment would be rendered unable to perform its intended function. The ability of the skin of the exposed area created by the one large recess allows the wearer to get immediate feedback by the heightened tactile sensitivities now that the basketball can directly touch the exposed skin of the middle of the palm.

[0213] Likewise, the one large recess cannot be significantly larger as it would also significantly diminish its unique capabilities captured from its unique combinations and synergies captured. For example, the strategically placed one large recess is such that the basketball should not touch the exposed skin unless the basketball has violated the shooter's gap region when preparing to shoot or when shooting the basketball. If the one large recess is substantially larger or positioned to extend along the wearer's metacarpophalangeal joints, then the basketball would touch the exposed skin even though the basketball is in fact being held and shot properly. Indeed, one of the surprising benefits of having immediate feedback has to do with heightened tactile sensitivities both because only a specific palm area is substantially exposed, as opposed to being covered by the glove material, and because the significant tactile differences between the exposed skin compared to the surrounding palm area, which is covered by the glove material (and thereby unable to touch the basketball); this major difference in tactile sensitivities make it possible to quickly sense if the basketball suddenly touches the exposed skin.

[0214] In fact, as aforementioned, it is important that the only one large recess not extend to expose any of the wearer's metacarpophalangeals when the glove is worn. The pinkie finger metacarpophalangeal and thumb metacarpophalangeal, for example, can play a major role when control and shooting a basketball so exposing the pinkie finger metacarpophalangeal or thumb metacarpophalangeal of the wearer's hand would substantially diminish the present invention's intended function.

[0215] An additional surprising result resulting from the unique structure of the embodiment is that the glove will give the basketball player the ability to put more backspin on the basketball when shooting the basketball. More backspin would, of course, give the ball the ability of bouncing around the hoop if the basket is not initially made, and providing more of what is commonly known as a shooters touch. The ability of the wearer to have more backspin would be uniquely created by the glove palmar portion having a top portion that covers the metacarpophalangeal joints of the wearer's fingers in their entirety thus creating increased grip capabilities along the joints that can create the backspin.

[0216] The embodiment may further comprise micro recesses along the glove body palmar and dorsal portions, for moisture management purposes as long as, of course, these micro recesses are not of substantial size to enable skin contact with a basketball. These micro recesses are generally about 0.120 millimeters or so in diameter, but certainly not large enough to enable skin contact with a basketball as that would then make the embodiment unable to complete its intended function.

[0217] Furthermore, the one large recess is preferably also reinforced, preferably by stitching 238 or by hot sealing. Constant movement of the wearer's hand increases stress on the integrity of the glove by the continual rubbing and twisting of the one recess when engaging and disengaging a basketball. Therefore the stitching can encircle the one large recess along its edge in order to be effective at preventing tearing along the one large recess. Additionally or alternatively, the one large recess may be sealed. When cutting certain materials such as synthetic materials including synthetic leather it is virtually impossible to keep the edges from fraying and splitting, or from allowing atmospheric moisture to enter into the material through the formed edges, thereby eroding and destroying the glove material. Therefore it is preferable that the one large recess edge be stitched or permanently sealed, preferably by hot knife sealing. The industrial hot knife is preferably used to melt the fabric edge of the one large recess such that the one large recess is sealed thereby preventing fraying, fabric splitting, and atmospheric moisture from entering into the glove body material through the one recess. If the one large recess is not sealed this portion may fray or split eroding the integrity of the glove structure and its valuable and unique benefits to the wearer. Hot knife sealing will also create a smooth finish along the entire one large recess edge. Hot knife sealing can only be performed on certain materials such as synthetic leathers and plastics otherwise the material will burn and cause harm to the glove structure. Cotton material for example will burn and therefore hot knife sealing cannot be performed on that type of material in which case stitching may be more appropriate. Natural materials such as cotton and genuine leather will not hot knife seal well, burning the material and often destroying the glove. It is therefore preferable that at least the materials forming the one large recess edge be formed of an appropriate material.

[0218] If the glove body is formed of a rubber or neoprene material, then fraying may not be an issue or course.

[0219] The glove has an open end 337 at the wrist portion 338 of the glove. The open end is expansible so as to hold more securely to the wearer's wrist. The glove wrist dorsal portion has a strap means 339 for fastening the glove body secure about the wrist area, critical in sports activities where the wearer's hand moves very rapidly such as in basketball for example. The strap means may comprise two pads of cohesive-adhesive material such as VELCRO fasteners 340, 341 or other hook and loop structures for releasably securing the strap, for example, or other structures aforementioned. For example, the strap means may comprise a flap 342 which mechanically engages a flap capture mechanism to secure the glove to the wearers hand (e.g., a synthetic hook and loop fastening interface which adheres when pressed together, commonly using VELCRO). The strap means as well as the wrist portion may be sewn onto the glove, for example.

[0220] The embodiment also provides micro recesses randomly disposed along the glove body dorsal portion, for ventilation. This micro recesses are generally about 0.120 millimeters or so in diameter, but certainly not large enough to enable skin contact with the basketball as that would then make the embodiment unable to complete its intended function.

[0221] The glove body dorsal portion also has a slit 343. The slit allows the wearer to quickly take off or put on the glove, and doing so very easily. The combined features of the slit with a strap means are especially valuable to wearers who play a sport of basketball for example, as they allow the wearer to quickly take off or put on the glove so as not to disrupt the athlete's concentration, and doing so very easily. It is therefore important that the strap is positioned along the glove body dorsal portion to extend manually over the slit.

[0222] It is commonly known that wrist bands have been constructed with perspiration absorbing capabilities, allowing an athlete to wipe perspiration away from their face during competition such as in basketball. However, as a basketball player is constantly moving her hand and wrist during play, the wrist bands often move up the wearer's wrists and can thus disturb the basketball player's focus during play. As such, a moisture absorbent material is provided along the glove body dorsal portion allowing the wearer to wipe off perspiration commonly on a wearer's face during active sports play. The moisture absorbent material 345 may be secured anywhere along the dorsal surface of the glove body, preferably along the middle of the glove body dorsal portion, along the glove body dorsal portion overlaying the forefinger metacarpal, or both. The moisture absorbent material may be formed of any moisture absorbent material aforementioned, such as, for example, about 1/12 inch terry cloth or so, or an absorbent foam stitched onto the dorsal portion surface of the glove body.

[0223] The materials forming the illustrated embodiment comprise those discussed in reference to the present invention, such as a synthetic leather or neoprene material. Likewise, any previously discussed methods of construction may be applied to this embodiment. This glove body dorsal portion also has a more flexible material, as compared to the surrounding material forming the glove body dorsal portion, formed of a more elastic fiber 352 such as spandex 353, along the metacarpophalangeal joints 354 of the wearer's forefinger, middle finger, ring finger and pinkie finger when the glove is worn. Providing a more flexible elastic material over the wearer's metacarpophalangeals allows the wearer to maximize her ability to flex her hand and grip a sports device such as a basketball.

[0224] As aforementioned in the specification, a critical benefit here is the ability to quickly assess her shot and therefore being able to adjust accordingly by only exposing the shooter's gap region of the wearer's hand. The benefits of this glove include the ability to enhance the senses around the uncovered palm (relative to the other parts of the hand which are covered) so that the basketball player could more easily know when the basketball is touching the palm, generally indicating bad shooting form. The palm opening can vary in size and shape as long as it doesn't extend significantly beyond substantially the middle of the palm area. Having multiple openings or a much wider opening could diminish tactile sensitivities along the shooter's gap region, a principal objective and advantage of the present invention.