Performance Gloves

Abstract

The present invention relates to sports apparatus and equipment, and uses thereof, used in playing the game of various sports. The present invention and its multi-sport glove embodiments significantly enhance the overall performance in athletic tasks and/or execution commonly associated during sports play, particularly in, but not limited to, football and golf by configuring to meet the specific requirements of a football quarterback's throwing hand and a golfer's dominant hand, for example. The present invention unique finger configurations completely cover the thumb and pinkie finger of a user's hand. Additionally, at least a portion of the user's forefinger, middle finger and ring finger are uncovered. Furthermore, the present invention may offer grip enhancers on the palm area, the thumb segment or on any existing finger segments. Additionally, the present invention may offer protective properties on the dorsal segment of the glove and any wrist portion thereof.

Claims

1. A glove comprising: a body comprising a palmar portion and a dorsal portion for overlaying a respective back and palm region of a human hand when the glove is worn; wherein said dorsal and palmar portions have distal and proximal ends with a plurality of digital segments projecting from said distal ends, the plurality of digital segments including a first digital segment that is adapted to completely enclose a user's thumb including the fingertip of said thumb when the glove is worn, and a second digital segment that is adapted to completely enclose the user's pinkie finger including the fingertip of said pinkie finger when the glove is worn, and a third digital segment that is adapted to overlay the user's forefinger, wherein said third digital segment is adapted to overlay a proximal phalanx and leave exposed at least a fingertip of the user's forefinger when the glove is worn, and a fourth digital segment that is adapted to overlay the user's middle finger, wherein said fourth digital segment is adapted to overlay a proximal phalanx and leave exposed at least a fingertip of the user's middle finger when the glove is worn, and a fifth digital segment that is adapted to overlay the user's ring finger, wherein said fifth digital segment is adapted to overlay a proximal phalanx and leave exposed at least a fingertip of the user's ring finger when the glove is worn, thereby providing a unique sports glove enhancing the grip capabilities along critical areas of the user's digital segments while maintaining or heightening tactile sensitivities along the exposed fingertips of the user's middle, ring and forefinger of the user's hand; and wherein said dorsal portion comprises a securement opening means whereby said securement opening means is adapted to allow the user to engage and disengage the glove during active sports activities.

2. The glove as claimed in claim 1, wherein said third digital segment that is designed to expose the user's distal phalanx such that the skin of the user's finger can touch a device or sporting object such as a football or golf club when the glove is worn; and, wherein said fourth digital segment that is designed to expose the user's distal phalanx such that the skin of the user's finger can touch a device or sporting object such as a football or golf club when the glove is worn; and wherein said fifth digital segment that is designed to expose the user's distal phalanx such that the skin of the user's finger can touch a device or sporting object such as a football or golf club when the glove is worn.

3. The glove as claimed in claim 1, wherein said glove body palmar portion is designed to overlay the entire palm of the user's hand when the glove is worn.

4. The glove as claimed in claim 1, wherein said glove further comprises moisture management recesses.

5. The glove as claimed in claim 1, wherein said dorsal portion further comprises of a slit; and, wherein said securement opening means comprises of a strap and strap capture mechanism, and is positioned along the glove body dorsal portion whereby a user can extend the strap across said slit and engage the strap capture mechanism, thereby allowing the user to tightly secure the glove on the user's hand.

6. A glove comprising: a body comprising a palmar portion and a dorsal portion for overlaying a respective back and palm region of a human hand when the glove is worn; wherein said dorsal and palmar portions have distal and proximal ends with a plurality of digital segments projecting from said distal ends, the plurality of digital segments including a first digital segment that is adapted to completely enclose a user's thumb including the fingertip of said thumb when the glove is worn, and a second digital segment that is adapted to completely enclose the user's pinkie finger including the fingertip of said pinkie finger when the glove is worn, and a third digital segment that is adapted to overlay the user's forefinger, wherein said third digital segment is adapted to overlay a proximal phalanx and leave exposed at least a fingertip of the user's forefinger when the glove is worn, and a fourth digital segment that is adapted to overlay the user's middle finger, wherein said fourth digital segment is adapted to overlay a proximal phalanx and leave exposed at least a fingertip of the user's middle finger when the glove is worn, and a fifth digital segment that is adapted to overlay the user's ring finger, wherein said fifth digital segment is adapted to overlay a proximal phalanx and leave exposed at least a fingertip of the user's ring finger when the glove is worn, thereby providing a unique sports glove enhancing the grip capabilities along critical areas of the user's digital segments while maintaining or heightening tactile sensitivities along the exposed fingertips of the user's middle, ring and forefinger of the user's hand; and wherein said dorsal portion comprises a securement opening means whereby said securement opening means is adapted to allow the user to engage and disengage the glove during active sports activities.

7. The glove as claimed in claim 6, wherein said third digital segment that is designed to overlay the entire proximal phalanx but does not cover the fingertip of the user's forefinger when the glove is worn, thereby exposing the user's distal phalanx such that the skin of the user's finger can touch a device or sporting object such as a football or golf club when the glove is worn; and, wherein said fourth digital segment that is designed to overlay the entire proximal phalanx but does not cover the fingertip of the user's middle finger when the glove is worn, thereby exposing the user's distal phalanx such that the skin of the user's finger can touch a device or sporting object such as a football or golf club when the glove is worn; and, wherein said fifth digital segment that is designed to overlay the entire proximal phalanx but does not cover the fingertip of the user's ring finger when the glove is worn, thereby exposing the user's distal phalanx such that the skin of the user's finger can touch a device or sporting object such as a football or golf club when the glove is worn.

8. The glove as claimed in claim 6, wherein said glove body palmar portion is designed to overlay the entire palm of the user's hand when the glove is worn.

9. The glove as claimed in claim 6, wherein said glove further comprises moisture management recesses.

10. The glove as claimed in claim 6, wherein said glove further comprises a grip enhancing mechanism; wherein said grip enhancing mechanism comprises of a plurality of depressions, a plurality of projections, or a tackifier, and is adapted to create a higher coefficient of friction than the surrounding palmar surface area when the glove is worn.

11. The glove as claimed in claim 6, wherein said third digital segment has a distal terminal edge whereby said digital segment is designed to allow the user's forefinger to extend past the terminal edge to completely expose the distal phalanx when the glove is worn; and wherein said third digital segment distal terminal edge is stitched to prevent the material from fraying; wherein said fourth digital segment has a distal terminal edge whereby said digital segment is designed to allow the user's middle finger to extend past the terminal edge to completely expose the distal phalanx when the glove is worn; and wherein said fourth digital segment distal terminal edge is stitched to prevent the material from fraying; wherein said fifth digital segment has a distal terminal edge whereby said digital segment is designed to allow the user's ring finger to extend past the terminal edge to completely expose the distal phalanx when the glove is worn; and wherein said fifth digital segment distal terminal edge is stitched to prevent the material from fraying.

12. A glove comprising: a body comprising a palmar portion and a dorsal portion for overlaying a respective back and palm region of a human hand when the glove is worn; wherein said dorsal and palmar portions have distal and proximal ends with a plurality of digital segments projecting from said distal ends, the plurality of digital segments including a first digital segment that is adapted to completely enclose a user's thumb including the fingertip of said thumb when the glove is worn, and a second digital segment that is adapted to completely enclose the user's pinkie finger including the fingertip of said pinkie finger when the glove is worn, and a third digital segment that is adapted to overlay the user's forefinger, wherein said third digital segment is adapted to overlay an entire proximal phalanx and leave exposed at least a fingertip of the user's forefinger when the glove is worn, and a fourth digital segment that is adapted to overlay the user's middle finger, wherein said fourth digital segment is adapted to overlay an entire proximal phalanx and leave exposed at least a fingertip of the user's middle finger when the glove is worn, and a fifth digital segment that is adapted to overlay the user's ring finger, wherein said fifth digital segment is adapted to overlay an entire proximal phalanx and leave exposed at least a fingertip of the user's ring finger when the glove is worn, thereby providing a unique sports glove enhancing the grip capabilities along critical areas of the user's digital segments while maintaining or heightening tactile sensitivities along the exposed fingertips of the user's middle, ring and forefinger of the user's hand; and wherein said glove body having a wrist section with a dorsal portion and palmar portion; said wrist section dorsal portion comprises a securement opening means whereby said securement opening means is adapted to allow the user to engage and disengage the glove during active sports activities.

13. The glove as claimed in claim 12, wherein said third digital segment has a distal terminal edge whereby said digital segment is designed to allow the user's forefinger to extend past the terminal edge to expose the distal phalanx when the glove is worn; and wherein said third digital segment distal terminal edge is stitched; wherein said fourth digital segment has a distal terminal edge whereby said digital segment is designed to allow the user's middle finger to extend past the terminal edge to expose the distal phalanx when the glove is worn; and wherein said fourth digital segment distal terminal edge is stitched; wherein said fifth digital segment has a distal terminal edge whereby said digital segment is designed to allow the user's ring finger to extend past the terminal edge to expose the distal phalanx when the glove is worn; and wherein said fifth digital segment distal terminal edge is stitched.

14. The glove as claimed in claim 12, wherein said third digital segment that is designed to not cover any portion of the user's fingertip of the user's forefinger when the glove is worn, thereby exposing the user's entire distal phalanx such that the skin of the user's finger can touch a device or sporting object such as a football or golf club when the glove is worn; and, wherein said fourth digital segment that is designed to not cover any portion of the user's fingertip of the user's middle finger when the glove is worn, thereby exposing the user's entire distal phalanx such that the skin of the user's finger can touch a device or sporting object such as a football or golf club when the glove is worn; and, wherein said fifth digital segment that is designed to not cover any portion of the user's fingertip of the user's middle finger when the glove is worn, thereby exposing the user's entire distal phalanx such that the skin of the user's finger can touch a device or sporting object such as a football or golf club when the glove is worn.

15. The glove as claimed in claim 12, wherein said glove further comprises a grip enhancing mechanism; wherein said grip enhancing mechanism comprises of a plurality of depressions, a plurality of projections, or a tackifier, and is adapted to create a higher coefficient of friction than the surrounding palmar surface area when the glove is worn.

16. The glove as claimed in claim 12, wherein said dorsal portion further comprises of a slit; and, wherein said securement opening means comprises of a strap and strap capture mechanism, and is positioned along the glove body dorsal portion whereby a user can extend the strap across said slit and engage the strap capture mechanism, thereby allowing the user to tightly secure the glove on the user's hand.

17. The glove as claimed in claim 12, wherein said glove body dorsal portion has an aperture, said aperture designed to extend across a metacarpophalangeal joint of the user's hand when the glove is worn.

18. The glove as claimed in claim 12, wherein said glove body dorsal portion has an aperture, said aperture is shaped in the form of a heart.

19. The glove as claimed in claim 12, wherein said glove body comprises a wrist portion and is adapted to overlay the user's wrist when the glove is worn; and wherein said wrist section dorsal portion further comprises of a slit; and, wherein said securement opening means comprises of a strap and strap capture mechanism, and is positioned along the glove body dorsal portion whereby a user can extend the strap across said slit and engage the strap capture mechanism, thereby allowing the user to tightly secure the glove on the user's hand.

20. The glove as claimed in claim 12, wherein said glove further comprises of moisture management recesses; and, wherein said recesses are in the shape of hearts.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWING

[0133] It is expressly understood that the following descriptions and drawings 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 embodiments for the left hand but can easily be created for the right hand.

[0134] FIG. 1 is a drawing of the palmar (front) view of a first embodiment. The glove completely covers the thumb and pinkie finger when the glove is worn. Additionally, the glove has a partially covered forefinger digital segment that is adapted to extend to cover the proximal phalanx of the user's forefinger but does not cover the fingertip of the forefinger, a partially covered middle finger digital segment that is adapted to extend to cover the proximal phalanx of the user's middle finger but does not cover the fingertip of the middle finger, and a partially covered ring finger digital segment that is adapted to extend to cover the proximal phalanx of the user's ring finger but does not cover the fingertip of the ring finger when the glove is worn.

[0135] FIG. 2 is a drawing of the embodiment as described in FIG. 1, showing the dorsal (back) view.

[0136] FIG. 3 is a drawing of the palmar view of a second embodiment. The glove completely covers the thumb and pinkie finger when the glove is worn. Additionally, the glove has a forefinger digital segment that is adapted to extend to cover the proximal phalanx of the user's forefinger but does not cover the fingertip of the forefinger, a middle finger digital segment that is adapted to extend to cover the proximal phalanx of the user's middle finger but does not cover the fingertip of the middle finger, and a ring finger digital segment that is adapted to extend to cover the proximal phalanx of the user's ring finger but does not cover the fingertip of the ring finger when the glove worn.

[0137] FIG. 4 is a drawing of the embodiment as described in FIG. 3, showing the dorsal view.

[0138] FIG. 5 is a drawing of the palmar view of a third embodiment, shown as a partial-fingered glove. The glove completely covers the thumb and pinkie finger when the glove is worn. Additionally, the glove has a partially covered forefinger digital segment that is adapted to extend to cover the proximal phalanx and the entire middle phalanx of the user's forefinger but does not cover the fingertip of the forefinger, a partially covered middle finger digital segment that is adapted to extend to cover the proximal phalanx and the entire middle phalanx of the user's middle finger but does not cover the fingertip of the middle finger, and a partially covered ring finger digital segment that is adapted to extend to cover the proximal phalanx and the entire middle phalanx of the user's ring finger but does not cover the fingertip of the ring finger when the glove is worn.

[0139] FIG. 6 is a drawing of the embodiment as described in FIG.5, dorsal view.

[0140] FIG. 7 is a drawing of the palmar view of a fourth embodiment, shown as a partial-fingered glove. The glove completely covers the thumb and pinkie finger when the glove is worn. Additionally, the glove has a forefinger digital segment that is adapted to extend to cover the proximal phalanx of the user's forefinger but does not cover any portion of the user's distal phalanx, a middle finger digital segment that is adapted to extend to cover the proximal phalanx of the user's middle finger but does not cover any portion of the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn.

[0141] FIG. 8 is a drawing of the embodiment as described in FIG.7, showing the dorsal view.

[0142] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 8, showing a liner and shock-absorbing members.

[0143] FIG. 10 is a drawing of the palmar view of a fifth embodiment, shown as a partial-fingered glove. The glove completely covers the thumb and pinkie finger when the glove is worn. Additionally, the glove has a forefinger digital segment that is adapted to extend to cover the proximal phalanx of the user's forefinger but does not extend to cover any portion of the user's distal phalanx, a middle finger digital segment that is adapted to extend to cover the proximal phalanx of the user's middle finger but does not extend to cover any portion of the user's distal phalanx, and a ring finger digital segment that is adapted to extend to cover the proximal phalanx of the user's ring finger but does not extend to cover any portion of the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn.

[0144] FIG. 11 is a drawing of the embodiment as described in FIG.10, showing the dorsal view.

[0145] FIG. 12 is an illustration of a user gripping a golf club using the conventional interlocking grip method.

[0146] FIG. 13 is an illustration of a standard way of gripping a football when preparing the throw a football.

[0147] FIG. 14 is a replication of a recent ad promotion which illustrates a standard method of gripping a football when preparing to throw the football down the field.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0148] 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.

[0149] Referring now to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, an embodiment of the present invention is shown and designated as 10. The palmar view of a glove is drawn in FIG. 1 and the dorsal view of the same glove is drawn in FIG. 2. This partial-fingered embodiment provides a glove having a dorsal portion 11, a palmar portion 31 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 back portion 11 covering the back of the hand, and a front portion 31 covering the palm or front of the hand when the glove is worn.

[0150] In the illustrated embodiment the glove is constructed such that it includes a thumb digital segment 12 that fully encloses a user's thumb, including enclosing the fingertips, and a pinkie digital segment 13 that fully encloses the user's pinkie finger, including enclosing the fingertips when the glove is worn.

[0151] In addition, the glove has a forefinger digital segment 14 with a distal terminal edge 32. Said forefinger digital segment is adapted to extend to cover the entire proximal phalanx of the user's forefinger but does not cover the fingertip of the forefinger when the glove is worn, defining the forefinger segment. In other words, the forefinger digital segment is adapted to expose a significant portion of the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn, thereby allowing heightened tactile sensitivities along the fingertip which extends beyond the distal terminal edge such that the skin of the fingertip can touch a device or sports object, while simultaneously enhancing grip capabilities along the covered proximal phalanx of the user's forefinger when the glove is worn. Covering the proximal phalanx allows the user to maintain grip along the area where the proximal phalanx grips a golf club for example, while exposing the distal phalanx gives the user heightened tactile sensitivities along the area where the distal phalanx interlock with the opposing hand's pinkie finger, for example.

[0152] In addition, the glove has a middle finger digital segment 15 with a distal terminal edge 33. Said middle finger digital segment is adapted to extend to cover the entire proximal phalanx of the user's middle finger but does not cover the fingertip of the middle finger when the glove is worn, defining the middle finger segment. In other words, the middle finger digital segment is adapted to expose a significant portion of the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn, thereby allowing heightened tactile sensitivities along the fingertip which extends beyond the distal terminal edge such that the skin of the fingertip can touch a device or sports object, while simultaneously enhancing grip capabilities along the covered proximal phalanx of the user's middle finger. Covering the proximal phalanx allows the user to maintain grip along the area where the proximal phalanx grips a golf club for example, while exposing the distal phalanx gives the user heightened tactile sensitivities along the distal phalanx thereby allowing for heightened sensitivity along the middle portion of the user's hand during the golf swing, for example.

[0153] In addition, the glove has a ring finger digital segment 16 with a distal terminal edge 34. Said ring finger digital segment is adapted to extend to cover the entire proximal phalanx of the user's ring finger but does not cover the fingertip of the ring finger when the glove is worn, defining the ring finger segment. In other words, the ring finger digital segment is adapted to expose a significant portion of the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn, thereby allowing heightened tactile sensitivities along the fingertip which extends beyond the distal terminal edge such that the skin of the fingertip can touch a device or sports object, while simultaneously enhancing grip capabilities along the covered proximal phalanx of the user's ring finger. Covering the proximal phalanx allows the user to maintain grip along the area where the proximal phalanx grips a golf club for example, while exposing the distal phalanx gives the user heightened tactile sensitivities along the distal phalanx thereby allowing for heightened sensitivity along the back portion of the user's hand during the golf swing, for example.

[0154] The palmar portion of the glove body 31 also covers the palm segment overlaying the palm of the hand; the dorsal portion of the glove body 11 also covers the back of the user's hand when the glove is worn. The glove also has a wrist portion 17 that surrounds the wrist of the user.

[0155] The thumb stall 12 is defined by a dorsal portion 35 and a palmar portion 36. The forefinger stall 14 is defined by a dorsal portion 37 and a palmar portion 38. The middle finger stall 15 is defined by a dorsal portion 39 and a palmar portion 40. The ring finger stall 16 is defined by a dorsal portion 41 and a palmar portion 42. The pinkie finger stall 13 is defined by a dorsal portion 43 and a palmar portion 44.

[0156] Furthermore, the forefinger segment distal terminal edge 32, the middle finger segment distal terminal edge 33, and the ring finger segment distal terminal edge 34 are each reinforced by stitching 45. Stitching the forefinger segment, the middle finger segment and the ring finger segment along or around the opening is very important because the opening would otherwise easily tear, destroying the finger segments and therefore the glove, making the glove inoperable. Therefore the stitching 45 is adapted to encircle the entire distal terminal edges 32, 33, 34 in order to be effective at preventing tearing along the forefinger terminal edge 32, the middle finger terminal edge 33 and the ring finger terminal edge 34.

[0157] The wrist portion 17 is expansible so as to hold more securely to the user's wrist. Therefore the embodiment also has an expandable opening means 20 at a wrist end comprises an elastic material 20 along the wrist portion, such as an elastomeric band 20 fixed around throughout the wrist portion. In addition, the glove further comprises a securement opening means 22 at the open end of the glove body dorsal portion for fastening the glove body secure about the wrist area, critical in sports activities where the user's hand moves very rapidly such as in golf or football. The securement opening means may be unitary with the glove body and may include strap and strap capture mechanism such as VELCRO fasteners 23, 24, buttons, and the like or other suitable closures thereon. The securement opening means allows the user to ensure a tight fit around the user's hand so that it will not disengage from the user's hand during high velocity sport movements such as swinging a driving wood golf club or throwing a Hail Mary football pass. The securement opening means also allows the user to quickly engage and disengage the glove, important aspects during active sports play such as in golf and in football. The wrist portion further comprises a slit 25. The slit allows the user to quickly take off or put on the glove, and doing so very easily.

[0158] Providing a slit and securement opening means is especially valuable to users who play a sport that requires the constant removal of the glove, such as in footballwhere players generally take off their gloves during a change of possession, and golfwhere virtually all players take off their glove when preparing to putt a golf ball. The securement opening means is adapted to allow the user to mechanically stretch the securement opening means, such as a strap across the slit and fasten the glove to the user's hand.

[0159] This embodiment further shows how the present invention may comprise a grip enhancing mechanism. Although the embodiment now provides a higher coefficient of friction on a golfer's weak hand, one now can further increase grip areas by adding a grip enhancing mechanism on select areas or on the entire palmar surface of the glove.

[0160] This embodiment may also comprise a detachable ball marker 26. A ball marker is often used when playing golf. During certain times, such as when reaching the green or when obstructing another player's direct path to the golf hole, the golfer may pick his ball and place a ball marker directly behind the golf ball; the golfer can then pick up the golf ball. The embodiment provides a convenient, detachable ball marker on the glove. The detachable ball marker in this embodiment is a small circular object with a design that points to where the golf ball exactly is located.

[0161] The detachable ball marker 26 is secured by any standard fastening means 28, such as by a compartment 28, by magnetism or snap fastening, for example. The illustrated embodiment shows a compartment 28 within the strap on the dorsal segment of the glove. The compartment secures the ball marker by VELCRO fasteners 19, 29, but other commonly known fasteners will work just as well. The ball marker may be circular or non-circular in design.

[0162] Additionally, embodiments may offer a liner 46 in the interior of the glove using methods known in the art, such as stitching. The liner 46 may be integrally formed on the glove. For example, the liner (or sleeve) could be attached to the glove by standard methods, such as by conventional stitching about the perimeter of the dorsal segment, the palmar segment or both.

[0163] The lining 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 46 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. The liner may be infused with Aloe Vera 47.

[0164] It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many other implementations of liners are possible.

[0165] A plurality of moisture management micro recesses 49 of about 0.120 millimeters in diameter may be randomly disposed throughout the front and back of the glove body and on any finger and thumb stalls of the glove, thereby providing added comfort and more ventilation.

[0166] The dorsal surface may comprise of a different material than the palmar surface, such as a more durable fabric, but would preferably also be rather flexible. If the dorsal surface is comprised of more durable fabrics, such as synthetic leather, then some added elasticity capabilities may be also preferable on select areas of the dorsal surface, in particular around the metacarpophalangeal joints. For example, the dorsal surface may comprise of an aperture on the forefinger's metacarpophalangeal joint, the middle finger's metacarpophalangeal joint, the ring finger's metacarpophalangeal joint, and on the pinkie finger's metacarpophalangeal joint. Alternatively, embodiments may simply comprise of a more elastic material, such as any of those aforementioned such as spandex, on the dorsal surface overlaying said metacarpophalangeal joints, or seams or slits, while the rest of the dorsal surface is comprised of a more durable material. The elastic material could be stitched onto those areas, and therefore replacing the more durable materials along those select areas.

[0167] The palmar and dorsal surfaces, and any wrist portions, may then be conjoined on any finger and thumb portions, dorsal and palm portions and a wrist portion using any standard methods, such as by stitching, thus defining a pocket for receiving a user's hand.

[0168] The materials forming the illustrated embodiment may comprise those discussed in reference to the present invention. Likewise, any previously discussed methods of construction may be applied to this embodiment. For example, the dorsal surface may comprise of a different material than the palmar surface, such as a more durable fabric, but would preferably also be rather flexible. If the dorsal surface is comprised of more durable fabrics, such as synthetic leather, then some added elasticity capabilities may be also preferable, though not required, on select area of the dorsal surface, in particular around the metacarpophalangeal joints 21. For example, the dorsal surface may comprise of an aperture on the forefinger's metacarpophalangeal joint, the middle finger's metacarpophalangeal joint 21, the ring finger's metacarpophalangeal joint 21, and on the pinkie finger's metacarpophalangeal joint 21. Alternatively, embodiments may simply comprise of a more elastic material on the dorsal surface overlaying said metacarpophalangeal joints while the rest of the dorsal surface is comprised of a more durable material. The elastic material could be stitched onto those areas, and therefore replacing the more durable materials along those select areas. The shape of these apertures are in the shape of hearts 21.

[0169] The palmar and dorsal surfaces, and any wrist portions, may then for example be conjoined on any finger and thumb portions, dorsal and palm portions and a wrist portion using any standard methods, such as by stitching, thus defining a pocket for receiving a user's hand.

[0170] Referring now to FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, an embodiment of the present invention is shown and designated as 50. The palmar view of a glove is drawn in FIG. 3 and the dorsal view of the same glove is drawn in FIG. 4. This partial-fingered embodiment provides a glove having a dorsal portion 52, a palmar portion 51 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 back portion 52 covering the back of a user's hand, and a front portion 51 covering the palm or front of the hand when the glove is worn.

[0171] In the illustrated embodiment the glove is constructed such that it includes a thumb digital segment 53 that fully encloses a user's thumb, including enclosing the fingertips, and a pinkie digital segment 54 that fully encloses the user's pinkie finger, including enclosing the fingertips when the glove is worn.

[0172] In addition, the glove has a forefinger digital segment 55 with a distal terminal edge 56. Said forefinger digital segment is adapted to extend to cover the entire proximal phalanx of the user's forefinger but does not cover the fingertip of the forefinger when the glove is worn. In other words, the forefinger digital segment is adapted to expose at least a significant portion of the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn such that the skin of the fingertip can touch a device or sports object, thereby allowing heightened tactile sensitivities along the fingertip and simultaneously enhancing grip capabilities along the covered proximal phalanx of the user's forefinger. Additionally, the forefinger digital segment further covers the user's middle phalanx when the glove is worn, defining the forefinger segment. Covering the proximal phalanx allows the user to maintain grip along the area where the proximal phalanx grips a golf club for example, while exposing the distal phalanx gives the user heightened tactile sensitivities along the area where the distal phalanx interlock with the opposing hand's pinkie finger, for example.

[0173] In addition, the glove has a middle finger digital segment 57 with a distal terminal edge 58. Said middle finger digital segment is adapted to extend to cover the entire proximal phalanx of the user's middle finger but does not cover the fingertip of the middle finger when the glove is worn. In other words, the middle finger digital segment is adapted to expose a significant portion of the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn, thereby allowing heightened tactile sensitivities along the fingertip and simultaneously enhancing grip capabilities along the covered proximal phalanx of the user's middle finger. Additionally, the middle finger digital segment further covers the user's middle phalanx when the glove is worn, defining the middle finger segment. Covering the proximal phalanx allows the user to maintain grip along the area where the proximal phalanx grips a golf club for example, while exposing the distal phalanx gives the user heightened tactile sensitivities along the distal phalanx such that the skin of the fingertip can touch a device or sports object, thereby allowing for heightened sensitivity along the middle portion of the user's hand along the golf club during the golf swing, for example.

[0174] In addition, the glove has a ring finger digital segment 59 with a distal terminal edge 60. Said ring finger digital segment is adapted to extend to cover the entire proximal phalanx of the user's ring finger but does not cover the fingertip of the ring finger when the glove is worn. In other words, the ring finger digital segment is adapted to expose a significant portion of the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn such that the skin of the fingertip can touch a device or sports object, thereby allowing heightened tactile sensitivities along the fingertip and simultaneously enhancing grip capabilities along the covered proximal phalanx of the user's ring finger. Additionally, the ring finger digital segment further covers the user's middle phalanx when the glove is worn, defining the ring finger segment. Covering the proximal phalanx allows the user to maintain grip along the area where the proximal phalanx grips a golf club for example, while exposing the distal phalanx gives the user heightened tactile sensitivities along the distal phalanx thereby allowing for heightened sensitivity along the middle portion of the user's hand along the golf club during the golf swing, for example.

[0175] The glove also has a wrist portion 61 that surrounds the wrist of the user. The thumb stall 53 is defined by a dorsal portion 63 and a palmar portion 62. The forefinger stall 55 is defined by a dorsal portion 65 and a palmar portion 64. The middle finger stall 57 is defined by a dorsal portion 67 and a palmar portion 66. The ring finger stall 59 is defined by a dorsal portion 69 and a palmar portion 68. The pinkie finger stall 54 is defined by a dorsal portion 71 and a palmar portion 70.

[0176] Additionally, the distal terminal edge of the forefinger digital segment, the distal terminal edge of the middle finger digital segment, and the distal terminal edge of the ring finger digital segment are each further sealed 72. When cutting certain materials to form the glove such as synthetic materials 55, 57, 59 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 terminal edge 56 of the forefinger digital segment, the middle finger digital segment 58 and the ring finger digital segment 60 be permanently sealed 72, preferably by hot knife sealing 72. The industrial hot knife is preferably used to melt the fabric edges of the terminal edge such that the terminal edge is entirely sealed thereby preventing fraying, fabric splitting, and atmospheric moisture from entering into the glove body through the terminal edges. If any portion of the distal terminal edge is not sealed, in other words if there portions along the terminal edge which are not completely sealed, these portions along the terminal edge will fray or split eroding the integrity of the glove structure and its valuable and unique benefits to the user. Hot knife sealing will also create a smooth finish along the entire distal terminal edge allowing for easier glove application principally be allowing the user's fingertips to smoothly engaging and disengaging the respective digital segment. Hot knife sealing can only be performed on certain materials such as synthetic leathers and plastics otherwise the material will burn and cause harm. Cotton material for example will burn and therefore hot knife sealing cannot be performed on that type of material.

[0177] The wrist portion 61 is expansible so as to hold more securely to the user's wrist. Therefore the embodiment also has an expandable opening means 73 at a wrist end comprises an elastic material 73 along the wrist portion 61, such as an elastomeric band 73 fixed around throughout the wrist portion. In addition, the glove further comprises a securement opening means 74 at the open end of the glove body dorsal portion for fastening the glove body secure about the wrist area, critical in sports activities where the user's hand moves very rapidly such as in golf or football. The securement opening means may be unitary with the glove body and may include strap and strap capture mechanism such as VELCRO fasteners 75, 76, buttons, and the like or other suitable closures thereon. The securement opening means allows the user to ensure a tight fit around the user's hand so that it will not disengage from the user's hand during high velocity sport movements such as swinging a driving wood golf club or throwing a Hail Mary football pass. The securement opening means also allows the user to quickly engage and disengage the glove, important aspects during active sports play such as in golf and in football. The wrist portion further comprises a slit 77. The slit allows the user to quickly take off or put on the glove, and doing so very easily.

[0178] Providing a slit and securement opening means is especially valuable to users who play a sport that requires the constant removal of the glove, such as in footballwhere players generally take off their gloves during a change of possession, and golfwhere virtually all players take off their glove when preparing to putt a golf ball. The securement opening means is adapted to allow the user to mechanically stretch the securement opening means such as a strap, across the slit and fasten the glove to the user's hand.

[0179] This embodiment further shows how the present invention may comprise a grip enhancing mechanism 78 and thereby provide a higher coefficient of friction on select areas of the glove palmar surface.

[0180] The grip enhancing mechanism may comprise of a plurality of projections, a plurality of depressions or tackifiers including tackifier resins, such as rosins and their derivatives, terpenes, aliphatic, cycloaliphatic and aromatic resin, and any of a variety of hydrocarbon-type resins, tackifier coatings, tackified materials such tackified leathers and synthetic leathers, and other tackifier substances well commercially known in the art, strategically placed along the palmar portion of the glove body, thus providing very high grip capabilities to a user, especially to football quarterbacks and golfers.

[0181] In the illustrated embodiment, the glove palmar portion further comprises of a grip enhancing mechanism comprised of a plurality of discreet tackified locations. More specifically, the entire palmar portion of the thumb digital segment comprises a tackified material 79, such as impregnating a leather 79 with a tackifier resin 80 and then affixing said material onto the rest of the palmar portion of the glove body. This particular configuration provides for maximum grip capabilities for a user, such as a golfer. The less flexible thumb segment is not of importance to a golfer because the weak hand's thumb does not need to bend at any time during a golf swing. In addition, the entire palmar portion of the pinkie digital segment comprises a tackified material 82.

[0182] As aforementioned, the grip enhancing mechanism formed of these tackfied materials integral to the glove body or formed of tackified grip enhancing panels, are preferably configured to provide a significantly higher coefficient of friction, preferably of at least a Shore A Durometer Coefficient of Friction of between 2.0 and 4.5; Still more preferably a Shore A Durometer Coefficient of Friction of between 2.5 and 4.5.

[0183] Once the grip enhancing mechanism have been formed, they may then be applied to the palmar surface of the glove by any standard methods, such as by stitches or adhesives, for example.

[0184] Additionally, embodiments may offer a liner is fixed to the interior of the glove using methods known in the art, such as stitching. The liner 81 may be integrally formed on the glove. For example, the liner (or sleeve) could be attached to the glove by standard methods, such as by conventional stitching about the perimeter of the dorsal segment, the palmar segment or both.

[0185] The lining 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 81 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.

[0186] It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many other implementations of liners are possible.

[0187] A plurality of moisture management recesses 85 may be randomly disposed about the front, back and finger and thumb stalls of the glove, thereby providing added comfort and adequate ventilation. This embodiment shows heart shaped recesses 85 on the pinkie digital segment and thumb digital segment.

[0188] The dorsal surface may comprise of a different material than the palmar surface, such as a more durable fabric, but would preferably also be rather flexible. If the dorsal surface is comprised of more durable fabrics, such as synthetic leather, then some added elasticity capabilities may be also preferable on select areas of the dorsal surface, in particular around the metacarpophalangeal joints. For example, the dorsal surface may comprise of an aperture on the forefinger's metacarpophalangeal joint, the middle finger's metacarpophalangeal joint, the ring finger's metacarpophalangeal joint, and on the pinkie finger's metacarpophalangeal joint. Alternatively, embodiments may simply comprise of a more elastic material 83, such as any of those aforementioned such as spandex, on the dorsal surface overlaying said metacarpophalangeal joints, or seams or slits, while the rest of the dorsal surface 52 is comprised of a more durable material. The elastic material could be stitched onto those areas, and therefore replacing the more durable materials along those select areas.

[0189] The materials forming the illustrated embodiment may comprise those discussed in reference to the present invention. Likewise, any previously discussed methods of construction may be applied to this embodiment. This dorsal segment may be constructed as many standard golf gloves, made primarily of a durable but flexible material, such as synthetic material like synthetic leather, while providing a much more elastic fiber 83 such as spandex 83, along the metacarpophalangeal joints of the four fingers 84 of the user's hand when the glove is worn.

[0190] The palmar and dorsal surfaces, and any wrist portions, may then be conjoined on any finger and thumb portions, dorsal and palm portions and a wrist portion using any standard methods, such as by stitching, thus defining a pocket for receiving a user's hand.

[0191] Referring now to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, an embodiment of the present invention is shown and designated as 90. The palmar view of a glove is drawn in FIG. 5 and the dorsal view of the same glove is drawn in FIG. 6. This partial-fingered embodiment provides a glove having a dorsal portion 92, a palmar portion 91 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 back portion 92 covering the back of a user's hand, and a front portion 91 covering the palm or front of the hand when the glove is worn.

[0192] In the illustrated embodiment the glove is constructed such that it includes a thumb digital segment 93 that fully encloses a user's thumb, including enclosing the fingertips, and a pinkie digital segment 94 that fully encloses the user's pinkie finger, including enclosing the fingertips when the glove is worn.

[0193] In addition, the glove has a forefinger digital segment 95 with a distal terminal edge 96. Said forefinger digital segment is adapted to extend to cover the entire proximal phalanx and the entire middle phalanx of the user's forefinger but does not cover the fingertip of the forefinger when the glove is worn, defining the forefinger segment of the glove. In other words, the forefinger digital segment is adapted to expose a significant portion of the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn such that the skin of the fingertip can touch a device or sports object, thereby allowing heightened tactile sensitivities along the fingertip and simultaneously enhancing grip capabilities along the covered proximal phalanx of the user's forefinger. Covering the proximal phalanx allows the user to maintain grip along the area where the proximal phalanx grips a golf club for example, while exposing the distal phalanx gives the user heightened tactile sensitivities along the area where the distal phalanx interlock with the opposing hand's pinkie finger, for example.

[0194] In addition, the glove has a middle finger digital segment 97 with a distal terminal edge 98. Said middle finger digital segment is adapted to extend to cover the entire proximal phalanx and the entire middle phalanx of the user's middle finger but does not cover the fingertip of the middle finger when the glove is worn, thereby defining the middle finger segment of the glove. In other words, the middle finger digital segment is adapted to expose a significant portion of the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn such that the skin of the fingertip can touch a device or sports object, thereby allowing heightened tactile sensitivities along the fingertip and simultaneously enhancing grip capabilities along the covered proximal phalanx of the user's middle finger. Covering the proximal phalanx allows the user to maintain grip along the area where the proximal phalanx grips a golf club for example, while exposing the distal phalanx gives the user heightened tactile sensitivities along the distal phalanx thereby allowing for heightened sensitivity along the middle portion of the user's hand along a golf club during the golf swing, for example.

[0195] In addition, the glove has a ring finger digital segment 99 with a distal terminal edge 100. Said ring finger digital segment is adapted to extend to cover the entire proximal phalanx and the entire middle phalanx of the user's ring finger but does not cover the fingertip of the ring finger when the glove is worn, thereby defining the ring finger segment of the glove. In other words, the ring finger digital segment is adapted to expose a significant portion of the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn such that the skin of the fingertip can touch a device or sports object, thereby allowing heightened tactile sensitivities along the fingertip and simultaneously enhancing grip capabilities along the covered proximal phalanx of the user's ring finger. Covering the proximal phalanx allows the user to maintain grip along the area where the proximal phalanx grips a golf club for example, while exposing the distal phalanx gives the user heightened tactile sensitivities along the distal phalanx thereby allowing for heightened sensitivity along the middle portion of the user's hand along a golf club during the golf swing, for example.

[0196] The glove embodiment also has a wrist portion 101 that surrounds the wrist of the user. The thumb stall 93 is defined by a dorsal portion 103 and a palmar portion 102. The forefinger stall 95 is defined by a dorsal portion 105 and a palmar portion 104. The middle finger stall 98 is defined by a dorsal portion 107 and a palmar portion 106. The ring finger stall 99 is defined by a dorsal portion 109 and a palmar portion 108. The pinkie finger stall 94 is defined by a dorsal portion 111 and a palmar portion 110.

[0197] Furthermore, the forefinger segment distal terminal edge 96, the middle finger segment distal terminal edge 98, and the ring finger segment distal terminal edge 100 are each reinforced by stitching 112 or by sealing. Stitching the forefinger segment, the middle finger segment and the ring finger segment along or around the opening is very important because the opening would otherwise easily tear, destroying the finger segments and therefore the glove, making the glove inoperable. Therefore the stitching 112 is adapted to encircle the entire distal terminal edges 96, 98, 100 in order to be effective at preventing tearing or fraying along the forefinger terminal edge 96, the middle finger terminal edge 98 and the ring finger terminal edge 100. The finger digital segment distal terminal edges may alternatively be sealed, however. When cutting certain materials such as synthetic materials 91 including synthetic leather 91 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 essential that the entire terminal edge of the finger digital segments be permanently sealed or stitched.

[0198] The wrist portion 101 is expansible so as to hold more securely to the user's wrist. Therefore the embodiment also has an expandable opening means 114 at a wrist end comprises an elastic material 114 along the wrist portion, such as an elastomeric band 114 fixed around throughout the wrist portion. In addition, the glove further comprises a securement opening means 115 at the open end of the glove body dorsal portion for fastening the glove body secure about the wrist area, critical in sports activities where the user's hand moves very rapidly such as in golf or football. The securement opening means may be unitary with the glove body and may include strap and strap capture mechanism such as VELCRO fasteners 116, 117, buttons, and the like or other suitable closures thereon. The securement opening means allows the user to ensure a tight fit around the user's hand so that it will not disengage from the user's hand during high velocity sport movements such as swinging a driving wood golf club or throwing a Hail Mary football pass. The securement opening means also allows the user to quickly engage and disengage the glove, important aspects during active sports play such as in golf and in football. The wrist portion further comprises a slit 118. The slit allows the user to quickly take off or put on the glove, and doing so very easily.

[0199] Providing a slit and securement opening means is especially valuable to users who play a sport that requires the constant removal of the glove, such as in footballwhere players generally take off their gloves during a change of possession, and golfwhere virtually all players take off their glove when preparing to putt a golf ball. The securement opening means is adapted to allow the user to mechanically stretch the securement opening means such as a strap or flap across the slit and fasten the glove to the user's hand.

[0200] Additionally, embodiments may offer a liner is fixed to the interior of the glove using methods known in the art, such as stitching. The liner 119 may be integrally formed on the glove. For example, the liner (or sleeve) could be attached to the glove by standard methods, such as by conventional stitching about the perimeter of the dorsal segment, the palmar segment or both.

[0201] This embodiment further shows how the present invention may comprise a grip enhancing mechanism. The grip enhancing mechanism creates a higher coefficient of friction then the surrounding glove palmar surface.

[0202] This embodiment further shows how the present invention may comprise a grip enhancing mechanism 120, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 130, 131, 132, 133, 148 along the glove palmar surface. Although the embodiment now provides a higher coefficient of friction than what the skin of throwing hand of a quarterback or a golfer's dominant hand would otherwise provide for example, one may now further increase grip areas by adding a grip enhancing mechanism on select areas of the palmar portion of the glove. In general, the grip enhancing mechanism of the present invention may be integral to the glove or may be affixed to the glove surface by, for example, forming a grip enhancing panel and applying the panel onto a portion of the palmar portion of the glove body.

[0203] The glove body may include a grip enhancing mechanism comprising a plurality of depressions or a plurality of projections formed on select areas of the palmar portion, thereby creating a higher coefficient than on the rest of the glove body.

[0204] Formed on the illustrated glove is a plurality of depressions 120, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 130, 131, 132, 133 and tackified materials 148. These square-like and circular depressions preferably are spaced apart to allow for added grip and flexibility. The plurality of depressions are preferably provided on at least one phalanx of any finger stalls 120, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128.

[0205] The grip enhancing mechanism comprising a plurality of depressions overlay, more specifically, for example, the entire palmar portion 120 of the thumb stall palmar segment 93. In addition, a plurality of depressions overlay the middle phalanx 122, and the proximal phalanx 123 of the forefinger stall palmar portion. In addition, a plurality of depressions over the proximal phalanx 124 of the middle finger stall palmar portion. In addition, a plurality of depressions overlay the proximal phalanx 125 of the ring finger stall palmar portion. In addition, a plurality of depressions overlay the distal phalanx 126, the middle phalanx 127 and the proximal phalanx 128 of the pinkie finger. In addition, a plurality of depressions overlay the forefinger metacarpophalangeal joint 130, the middle finger metacarpophalangeal joint 131, the ring finger metacarpophalangeal joint 132, and pinkie finger metacarpophalangeal joint 133.

[0206] The grip enhancing mechanism comprising a plurality of depressions may be integrally formed on, or may be affixed to the glove body palmar portion. For example, the plurality of depressions may be affixed the glove body by forming said plurality of depressions onto a panel, and then affixed the panel onto select areas of the glove body by any standard methods, such as by stitching or adhesion for example.

[0207] The grip enhancing mechanism provide a higher and more effective coefficient of friction than the rest of the glove body palmar surface.

[0208] Furthermore, a grip enhancing mechanism 148 overlays the pinkie finger's metacarpal. Said grip enhancing mechanism comprises a discreet grip enhancing panel 148 that overlays the pinkie finger's metacarpal, whereby said grip enhancing panel is a tackified material 148; said grip enhancing panel is configured to overlay the pinkie finger metacarpal, in part or in its entirety, but not to extend beyond said metacarpal. Providing a grip enhancing mechanism along this location provides increased grip along a critical grip area especially important when controlling a football. In addition, many novice golfers find it difficult to keep the golf club shaft from moving on the downswing. Often, the shaft will be held toward the top of the pinkie metacarpal, closest to the metacarpophangeal joint, but as a golfer completes the downswing, the shafts uncontrollably moves down toward the bottom of the pinkie metacarpal, clearly resulting in inconstant golf swings. Thus, providing a grip enhancing mechanism along the pinkie metacarpal will serve to resolve these grip deficiencies.

[0209] Once the grip enhancing panels have been formed, these panels may then be applied to the palmar surface of the glove by any standard methods, such as by stitches or adhesives, for example.

[0210] Additionally, embodiments such as this one, may be completely coated with a with a water repellant substance 152 such as a synthetic resin 152 on the glove palmar surface or throughout the entire glove. The glove may also provide a plurality of moisture management recesses 153 in the form of micro recesses of about 0.120 millimeters or so in diameter may be randomly disposed about the front, back and finger and thumb stalls of the glove, thereby providing added comfort and more ventilation.

[0211] The materials forming the illustrated embodiment may comprise those discussed in reference to the present invention. Likewise, any previously discussed methods of construction may be applied to this embodiment. The dorsal surface may comprise of a different material than the palmar surface, such as a more durable fabric, but would preferably also be rather flexible. If the dorsal surface is comprised of more durable fabrics, such as synthetic leather, then some added elasticity capabilities may be also preferable on select areas of the dorsal surface, in particular around the metacarpophalangeal joints. For example, the dorsal surface may comprise of an aperture 154, 155, 156, 157 on the forefinger's metacarpophalangeal joint 154, the middle finger's metacarpophalangeal joint 155, the ring finger's metacarpophalangeal joint 156, and on the pinkie finger's metacarpophalangeal joint 157. Said apertures 154, 155, 156, 157 are in the shape of hearts.

[0212] The palmar and dorsal surfaces, and any wrist portions, may then be conjoined on any finger and thumb portions, dorsal and palm portions and a wrist portion using any standard methods, such as by stitching, thus defining a pocket for receiving a user's hand,.

[0213] Referring now to FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, another embodiment of the athletic glove of the present invention is shown and designated as 170. The palmar (front) view of an embodiment is drawn in FIG. 7 and the dorsal (back) view of the same glove is drawn in FIG. 8. This partial-fingered embodiment provides a glove having a dorsal portion 172 and a palmar portion 171 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 back portion 172 covering the dorsal surface of a user's hand, and a front portion 171 covering essentially the entire palm surface of the hand when the glove is worn. The glove body includes finger segments and a thumb segment each adapted to receive a finger or thumb, respectively, therein.

[0214] In the illustrated embodiment the glove is constructed such that it includes a thumb digital segment 173 that fully encloses a user's thumb, including enclosing the fingertips, and a pinkie digital segment 174 that fully encloses the user's pinkie finger, including enclosing the fingertips when the glove is worn. Enclosing the thumb and pinkie finger significantly increases the user's grip of a football, for example, by substantially increasing the user's grip at the two opposite ends of the football simultaneously when throwing a football for example.

[0215] In addition, the glove has a forefinger digital segment 175 with a distal terminal edge 176. Said forefinger digital segment is adapted to extend to cover the entire proximal phalanx of the user's forefinger but does not cover any portion of the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn. In other words, the forefinger digital segment is adapted to expose the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn such that the skin of the fingertip can touch a device or sports object, thereby allowing heightened tactile sensitivities along the fingertip and simultaneously enhancing grip capabilities along the covered proximal phalanx of the user's forefinger. In addition, the forefinger digital segment is adapted to cover at least a portion the user's middle phalanx, defining the forefinger segment of the glove. Covering the proximal phalanx allows the user to maintain grip along the area where the proximal phalanx is unsupported by the football laces when throwing a football for example, thereby increasing the user to impart more spin and accuracy when throwing the football.

[0216] In addition, the glove has a middle finger digital segment 177 with a distal terminal edge 178. Said middle finger digital segment is adapted to extend to cover the entire proximal phalanx of the user's middle finger but does not cover any portion of the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn. In other words, the middle finger digital segment is adapted to expose the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn such that the skin of the fingertip can touch a device or sports object, thereby allowing heightened tactile sensitivities along the fingertip and simultaneously enhancing grip capabilities along the covered proximal phalanx of the user's middle finger. In addition, the middle finger digital segment is adapted to cover at least a portion the user's middle phalanx, defining the middle finger segment of the glove. Covering the proximal phalanx allows the user to maintain grip along the area where the proximal phalanx is unsupported by the football laces when throwing a football for example, while exposing the distal phalanx allows the user to place the middle finger's fingertip on top of the football laces unencumbered by a glove material.

[0217] In addition, the glove has a ring finger digital segment 179 with a distal terminal edge 180. Said ring finger digital segment is adapted to extend to cover the entire proximal phalanx of the user's ring finger but does not cover any portion of the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn. In other words, the ring finger digital segment is adapted to expose the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn such that the skin of the fingertip can touch a device or sports object, thereby allowing heightened tactile sensitivities along the fingertip and simultaneously enhancing grip capabilities along the covered proximal phalanx of the user's ring finger. In addition, the ring finger digital segment is adapted to cover at least a portion the user's middle phalanx, defining the ring finger segment of the glove. Covering the proximal phalanx allows the user to maintain grip along the area where the proximal phalanx is unsupported by the football laces when throwing a football for example, while exposing the distal phalanx allows the user to place the ring finger's fingertip on top of the football laces unencumbered by a glove material.

[0218] The glove also has a wrist portion 181 that surrounds the wrist of the user. The thumb stall 173 is defined by a dorsal portion 183 and a palmar portion 182. The forefinger stall 175 is defined by a dorsal portion 185 and a palmar portion 184. The middle finger stall 177 is defined by a dorsal portion 187 and a palmar portion 186. The ring finger stall 179 is defined by a dorsal portion 189 and a palmar portion 188. The pinkie finger stall 174 is defined by a dorsal portion 191 and a palmar portion 190.

[0219] Furthermore, the forefinger segment distal terminal edge 176, the middle finger segment distal terminal edge 178, and the ring finger segment distal terminal edge 180 are each reinforced by stitching 192 or by sealing. Stitching the forefinger segment, the middle finger segment and the ring finger segment along or around the opening is important because the opening would otherwise easily tear, destroying the finger segments and therefore the glove, making the glove inoperable. Therefore the stitching 192 is adapted to encircle the entire distal terminal edges 176, 178, 180 in order to be effective at preventing tearing along the forefinger terminal edge 176, the middle finger terminal edge 178 and the ring finger terminal edge 180.

[0220] The wrist portion 181 is expansible so as to hold more securely to the user's wrist. Therefore the embodiment also has an expandable opening means 194 at a wrist end comprises an elastic material 194 along the wrist portion, such as an elastomeric band 181 fixed around throughout the wrist portion. In addition, the glove further comprises a securement opening means 195 at the open end of the glove body dorsal portion for fastening the glove body secure about the wrist area, critical in sports activities where the user's hand moves very rapidly such as in golf or football. The securement opening means includes a strap 195 which may be unitary with the glove body and may include VELCRO fasteners 196, 197, buttons, and the like or other suitable closures thereon. The strap means allows the user to ensure a tight fit around the user's hand so that it will not disengage from the user's hand during high velocity sport movements such as swinging a driving wood golf club or throwing a Hail Mary football pass. The strap means also allows the user to quickly engage and disengage the glove, important aspects during active sports play such as in golf and in football. The wrist portion further comprises a slit 198. The slit allows the user to quickly take off or put on the glove, and doing so very easily.

[0221] Providing a slit and securement opening means is especially valuable to users who play a sport that requires the constant removal of the glove, such as in footballwhere players generally take off their gloves during a change of possession, and golfwhere virtually all players take off their glove when preparing to putt a golf ball. The securement opening means is adapted to allow the user to mechanically stretch the securement opening means such as a strap across the slit and fasten the glove to the user's hand.

[0222] This embodiment further shows how the present invention may also comprise a grip enhancing mechanism 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 208, 209, 206, 207, 210, 211, 212. Although the embodiment now provides a higher coefficient of friction on the throwing hand of a quarterback or on a golfer's dominant hand, one may now further increase grip areas by adding a grip enhancing mechanism on select areas.

[0223] In general, the grip enhancing mechanism of the present invention may be integral to the glove or may be affixed to the glove surface by, for example, forming a grip enhancing panel and applying the panel onto a portion of the glove.

[0224] The glove body may include a grip enhancing mechanism comprising a plurality of depressions or a plurality of projections formed on select areas of the palmar portion, thereby creating a higher coefficient than on the rest of the glove body palmar surface.

[0225] Formed on the illustrated glove is a plurality of projections 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 208, 209, 206, 207, 210, 211, 212. These circular projections preferably are spaced apart to allow for added grip and flexibility.

[0226] The illustrated embodiment has a grip enhancing mechanism on select areas of the front of the hand, specifically along the four digital segments as well as along the region between the thumb and forefinger segments. The grip enhancing mechanism comprises oval projections, each having a height of at least about three hundred micrometers, and are further grouped in diamond shaped clusters to allow for greater hand flexibility and movement.

[0227] The grip enhancing mechanism comprising a plurality of oval projections 201, 202 are located on the thumb stall 201 and forefinger stall 202 such that it only overlays the user's proximal phalanx when the glove is worn, to maximize grip abilities of a user's thumb and forefinger. In addition, a grip enhancing mechanism comprising a plurality of projections located along substantially the entire pinkie finger palmar portion 203, 204, 205. In addition, a grip enhancing mechanism comprising a plurality of projections 206 overlay substantially the pinkie finger's metacarpophalangeal joint, and an additional one on a substantial portion of the pinkie finger's metacarpal 207 and formed from a nitrile material 207, for example.

[0228] In addition, a grip enhancing mechanism comprising of a plurality of projections overlay the proximal phalanx 208 of the middle finger stall palmar portion but does not overlay any portion of the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn. In addition, a plurality of projections overlay the proximal phalanx 209 of the ring finger stall palmar portion but does not overlay any portion of the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn as the digital segment does not overlay the distal phalanx.

[0229] In the illustrated embodiment, the grip enhancing mechanism further comprises a plurality of projections overlaying key areas of the user's palm surface, including and on any finger metacarpophalangeal joints, such as the forefinger metacarpophalangeal joint 210, the middle finger metacarpophalangeal joint 211, and the ring finger metacarpophalangeal joint 212.

[0230] The grip enhancing mechanism comprising of these grip enhancing panels preferably provide a higher and more effective coefficient of friction than the material forming the surrounding palmar portion of the glove body.

[0231] Additionally, embodiments such as this one, may be completely coated with a with a water repellant substance such as SCOTCH GUARD on the palmar surface or throughout the entire glove. Alternatively, moisture management recesses in the form of a plurality of micro recesses of about 0.120 millimeters or so in diameter may be randomly disposed about the front, back and finger and thumb stalls of the glove, thereby providing added comfort and more ventilation.

[0232] As aforementioned, the present invention, including this embodiment may be constructed using standard materials and methods of construction known in the art of making sports gloves. For example, construction of this embodiment may be accomplished by standard methods, such as, by designing the dorsal and palmar sections to meet along a conjoining lateral edge to define a pocket for receiving the eminence of a user's hand. Said dorsal and palmar sections could be conjoined by sewing, for example. One could use any standard method of manufacture and assembly or construction.

[0233] The embodiment is suitably a substantially conventionally constructed sports glove, modified as aforementioned. This particular glove can be made of a polyester and cotton blend for superior comfort or of a synthetic leather latex coated glove for added durability. Other materials that could comprise these glove embodiments include, but are not limited to woven materials that include natural, synthetic or blends of natural and synthetic yarns, thermoextruded or thermoset rubbery embodiments including those made from thermoplastic elastomers, and cloths. Examples of synthetic yarns include nylon, polyester, and spandex (polyurethane) yarns. Additionally, embodiments such as this one, may be coated with a with a water repellant substance, such as a synthetic resin throughout the entire outer surface of the glove.

[0234] Embodiments may also preferably comprise of a shock-absorbing member 215, 219, 220, 221, 222, 216, 217 along any portion of the dorsal surface 172, such as any or all existing finger and thumb stalls, along the dorsal surface overlaying any or all of the metacarpals, or combinations thereof.

[0235] Embodiments may preferably comprise a shock-absorbing member 215 along substantially all of the dorsal surface overlaying the thumb of the user's hand when the glove is worn. The shock-absorbing member overlaying the user's thumb is in the pattern of a diamond 215, and is configured as a padded segment 215 that is adapted to overlay the user's proximal and distal phalanges of the user's thumb when the glove is worn. Other embodiments may prefer to overlay the thumb as separate padding segments, for example, to allow for significant finger flexibility by having one pad overlaying only the proximal phalanx, and a second pad overlaying only the distal phalanx of the thumb. By not covering any of the thumb joints you have added flexibility but less protection.

[0236] The length of the shock-absorbing member is further restricted to the length of the thumb segment extending from the glove and, as mentioned, the dorsal surface area of the thumb segment 183allowing for the shock-absorbing member to extend circumferentially along the sides of the thumb segment but not extending onto the palmar surface of the thumb segment, therefore not extending over one hundred and eighty degrees.

[0237] This embodiment also has a shock-absorbing member 219 along substantially all of the dorsal surface overlaying the forefinger of the user's hand when the glove is worn. The shock-absorbing member overlaying the forefinger is in the pattern of a square 219, and is configured as a one pad segment 219.

[0238] The length of the shock-absorbing member is further restricted to the length of the forefinger segment extending from the glove and, as mentioned, the dorsal surface area of the forefinger segment 185allowing for the shock-absorbing member to extend circumferentially along the sides of the forefinger segment but not extending onto the palmar surface of the forefinger segment.

[0239] This embodiment also has a shock-absorbing member 220 along substantially the dorsal surface overlaying the proximal phalanx of the middle finger but does not extend to cover any portion the middle finger's distal phalanx when the glove is worn. The shock-absorbing member overlaying the middle finger is in the pattern of a square 220, and is configured as a one pad segment 220, for example. The length of the shock-absorbing member would further be restricted to the length of the middle finger segment extending from the glove and, as mentioned, the dorsal surface area of the middle finger segment 187allowing for the shock-absorbing member to extend circumferentially along the sides of the middle finger segment but not extending onto the palmar surface of the middle finger segment.

[0240] This embodiment also has a shock-absorbing member 221 along the dorsal surface overlaying the proximal phalanx of the ring finger but does not extend to cover any portion the ring finger's distal phalanx when the glove is worn. The shock-absorbing member overlaying the ring finger is in the pattern of a square 221, and is configured as a one pad segment 221. The length of the shock-absorbing member would further be restricted to the length of the ring finger segment extending from the glove and, as mentioned, the dorsal surface area of the ring finger segment 189allowing for the shock-absorbing member to extend circumferentially along the sides of the ring finger segment but generally not extending onto the palmar surface of the ring finger segment.

[0241] This embodiment also has a shock-absorbing member along substantially the dorsal surface overlaying the metacarpals of the user's four fingers 222 when the glove is worn. The shock-absorbing member overlaying the four metacarpals is in the pattern of a rectangle 222, and is configured as aforementioned, such as a conventional padding material, such as foam rubber 222. The length and width of the shock-absorbing member of this embodiment is generally restricted to the dorsal portion of the glove overlaying the metacarpals of the hand, and therebetween, 223 in part or in their entirety.

[0242] Embodiments may also preferably comprise of a shock-absorbing member along any portion of the dorsal surface overlaying any of the carpometacarpals or wrist portion. The embodiment wrist portion also comprises a shock-absorbing member that protrudes on the dorsal segment 216 and 217, along the carpals about inch or so. This will give the user added protection from the abrasion such as from hitting said fingers and wrist on the ground or while the quarterback rushes with the football.

[0243] As mentioned, the shock-absorbing member may be affixed to the glove by any standard methods of attachment, such as by stitching or adhesion. For example, it can be in the form of pouches or attachments to the glove and then bonding these second layers to the back of the glove, using heat sealing or other methods.

[0244] As illustrated, the the shock-absorbing members are integral with the material that form the glove, and may be applied to select areas of the glove by standard methods and forms of attachment methods such as, for example, by the dorsal segment comprising of a vinyl sheet material with a stretch nylon backing and the liner (or sleeve) 224 made of a knit of polyester. The liner is positioned along the inner surface of the dorsal segment of the glove whereby the padded layer or layers would be inserted and then sealed. The cushions may also be secured to the glove by conventional stitching.

[0245] The liner 224 can be interposed between the shock-absorbing member and the interior of the glove, and separates the shock-absorbing member from the user's hand, fingers, thumb and metacarpals, such as disclosed above, allowing easy insertion of the user's hand. Preferably, the liner is fixed to the dorsal segment interior using methods known in the art, such as stitching, to fix the shock-absorbing member to the glove. Padding can be interposed between the dorsal segment and the liner. The liner secures the shock-absorbing member between the user's hand the dorsal segment. Of course, other methods of attachment that are known in the art may be used, such as by chemical bonding.

[0246] The shock-absorbing members now give the user protection from the abrasion from hitting said fingers against the helmet of an opponent, for example. The shock-absorbing member of the present invention offer the unique ability of being able to protect an injury while maintaining grip capabilities in select areas by offering padded layer or layers, a significant and substantial advancement to prior art, such as bandages and BAND-AID, thus providing a solution to a long-felt need of being able to protect a quarterback's throwing hand. And as trend of quarterbacks now rushing more continues, embodiments with shock-absorbing members will undoubtedly prevent throwing hand injuries by now allowing users to play the position of quarterback with a glove on their throwing hand.

[0247] The paddings can be made of a neoprene material or of any other material aforementioned. The illustrated dorsal segment may be constructed of material aforementioned such as a thicker, more durable material, such as a synthetic leather for added protection comprising the dorsal portion 172 of the glove. The dorsal segment may be joined to the palmar segment 171, by methods known in the art such as by sewing, to form an opening for receiving the user's hand.

[0248] This embodiment has a second layer shock-absorbing member 501, 502,503,504 along a proximal phalanx dorsal surface overlaying the user's digital segment when the glove is worn. The shock-absorbing member overlaying the digital segment is in the pattern of a square 501, 502, 503, 504 and is comprises any material aforementioned, such as an open cell or closed cell foam 501, 502, 503, 504 such as BOLLARD foam material, for example. Other embodiments may prefer to offer additional separate padding segments, for example, with a second pad overlaying only the proximal phalanx and a third pad overlaying only a second phalanx of a digital segment.

[0249] The length of the second layer shock-absorbing member is further restricted to the length of the protrusion along the proximal phalanx on the digital segment. The shock-absorbing member may be square-like 501 or of any identifiable shape such as a heart 502, 503 or diamond 504, for example.

[0250] This embodiment has a second layer shock-absorbing member 505 along a dorsal surface overlaying a metacarpal of the user's hand when the glove is worn. The second shock-absorbing member layer overlaying the user's metacarpals is in the pattern of a square 505, and is comprises any material aforementioned, such as an open cell 505 or closed cell foam, such as BOLLARD foam material, for example. Other embodiments may prefer to offer additional separate padding segments, for example, with a second pad overlaying only one metacarpal, and a third shock absorbing member layer overlaying only an additional metacarpal of the user's hand when the glove is worn.

[0251] The length of the second layer shock-absorbing member is further restricted to the length of the protrusion 505 along the dorsal portion of the glove body dorsal portion. The shock-absorbing member may be square-like 505 or of any identifiable shape such as a heart or diamond, for example.

[0252] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of FIGS. 7-8, showing the liner and protrusions. For example, the illustration shows a digital segment 173, whereby the shock-absorbing member 215 lies between the inner surface 225 of the dorsal segment of a digital segment 183 and the liner 224. The thickness of the shock-absorbing member can vary by user preference, such as about inch for example. The shock-absorbing member may be constructed with known material and those aforementioned, such as cotton, for example. Preferably, the liner is fixed to the dorsal segment interior using methods known in the art, such as stitching, to fix the shock-absorbing member to the glove.

[0253] This embodiment has a second layer shock-absorbing member 501, 502,503,504 along a proximal phalanx dorsal surface overlaying the user's digital segment when the glove is worn.

[0254] The shock-absorbing member overlaying the digital segment is in the pattern of a square 501, 505 or of any identifiable shape such as a heart 502, 503 or diamond 504, for example and may comprise of any material aforementioned, such as an open cell or closed cell foam 501, such as BOLLARD foam material, for example. Other embodiments may prefer to offer additional separate padding segments, for example, with a second pad overlaying only the proximal phalanx, and a third pad overlaying only the distal phalanx of a digital segment.

[0255] The length of the second layer shock-absorbing member is further restricted to the length of the protrusion 501 along the proximal phalanx on digital segment, say about 0.20 inch or so for example, and other dimensions to snugly enclose the aforementioned pads.

[0256] Additionally, the embodiment is configured such that a second protrusion 227 exists on a digital segment 173, located over an interphalangeal joint 228 of the digital segment dorsal surface, such as over a proximal interphalangeal joint 228. This protrusion does not contain a second shock-absorbing member thus providing the user with added flexibility capabilities along the interphalangeal joint, especially beneficial if the dorsal segment is generally constructed with a more durable material, such as a leather latex glove. Also, the liner may be made of a fleece material 224 thus offering additional comfort and warmth for the user, especially useful during rainy conditions.

[0257] Referring now to FIG. 10 and FIG. 11, another embodiment of the athletic glove of the present invention is shown and designated as 230. The palmar (front) view of an embodiment is drawn in FIG. 10 and the dorsal (back) view of the same glove is drawn in FIG. 11. This partial-fingered embodiment provides a glove having a dorsal portion 232 and a palmar portion 231 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 back portion 232 covering the dorsal surface of a user's hand, and a front portion 231 covering essentially the entire palm surface of the hand when the glove is worn. The glove body includes a pinkie finger digital segment and a thumb digital segment each adapted to receive a pinkie finger and a thumb, respectively, therein.

[0258] In the illustrated embodiment the glove is constructed such that it includes a thumb digital segment 233 that completely encloses a user's thumb, including enclosing the fingertips, and a pinkie digital segment 234 that completely encloses the user's pinkie finger, including enclosing the fingertips when the glove is worn.

[0259] In addition, the glove has a forefinger digital segment 235 with a distal terminal edge 236. Said forefinger digital segment is adapted to extend to cover the proximal phalanx of the user's forefinger but does not extend to cover any portion of the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn. In other words, the forefinger digital segment is adapted to expose the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn such that the skin of the fingertip can touch a device or sports object, thereby allowing heightened tactile sensitivities along the fingertip and simultaneously enhancing grip capabilities along the covered proximal phalanx of the user's forefinger. In addition, the forefinger digital segment is adapted such that it does not cover any portion the user's middle phalanx, defining the forefinger digital segment of the glove. Covering the proximal phalanx allows the user to maintain grip along the area where the proximal phalanx grips a golf club for example, while exposing the distal phalanx gives the user heightened tactile sensitivities along the area where the distal phalanx interlock with the opposing hand's pinkie finger, for example.

[0260] In addition, the glove has a middle finger digital segment 237 with a distal terminal edge 238. Said middle finger digital segment is adapted to extend to cover the proximal phalanx of the user's middle finger but does not cover any portion of the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn. In other words, the middle finger digital segment is adapted to expose the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn such that the skin of the fingertip can touch a device or sports object, thereby allowing heightened tactile sensitivities along the fingertip and simultaneously enhancing grip capabilities along the covered proximal phalanx of the user's middle finger. In addition, the middle finger digital segment is adapted such that it does not cover any portion the user's middle phalanx, defining the middle finger digital segment of the glove. Covering the proximal phalanx allows the user to maintain grip along the area where the proximal phalanx grips a golf club for example, while exposing the distal phalanx gives the user heightened and new tactile sensitivities along the area where the middle finger distal phalanx touches and grips the shaft of the golf club.

[0261] In addition, the glove has a ring finger digital segment 239 with a distal terminal edge 240. Said ring finger digital segment is adapted to extend to cover the proximal phalanx of the user's ring finger but does not cover any portion of the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn. In other words, the ring finger digital segment is adapted to expose the user's distal phalanx when the glove is worn such that the skin of the fingertip can touch a device or sports object, thereby allowing heightened tactile sensitivities along the fingertip and simultaneously enhancing grip capabilities along the covered proximal phalanx of the user's ring finger. In addition, the ring finger digital segment is adapted such that it does not cover any portion the user's middle phalanx, defining the ring finger digital segment of the glove. Covering the proximal phalanx allows the user to maintain grip along the area where the proximal phalanx grips a golf club for example, while exposing the distal phalanx gives the user heightened and new tactile sensitivities along the area where the ring finger distal phalanx touches and grips the shaft of the golf club.

[0262] The palmar section also covers the palm segment 231overlaying the palm of the hand; the dorsal section 232 also covers the back of the hand. The glove also has a wrist portion 251 that surrounds the wrist of the user. The thumb stall 233 is defined by a dorsal portion 242 and a palmar portion 241. The forefinger stall 235 is defined by a dorsal portion 244 and a palmar portion 243. The middle finger stall 237 is defined by a dorsal portion 246 and a palmar portion 245. The ring finger stall 239 is defined by a dorsal portion 248 and a palmar portion 247. The pinkie finger stall 234 is defined by a dorsal portion 250 and a palmar portion 249.

[0263] Furthermore, the forefinger segment distal terminal edge 236, the middle finger segment distal terminal edge 238, and the ring finger segment distal terminal edge 240 are each reinforced by stitching 252. Stitching the forefinger segment, the middle finger segment and the ring finger segment along or around the opening is important because the opening would otherwise easily tear, destroying the finger segments and therefore the glove, making the glove inoperable. Therefore the stitching 252 is adapted to encircle the entire distal terminal edges in order to be effective at preventing tearing along the forefinger terminal edge 336, the middle finger terminal edge 238 and the ring finger terminal edge 240.

[0264] Embodiments of the present invention may further comprise moisture management recesses for ventilation or moisture management purposes. These recesses can be circular in shape or in the shape of triangles 272. Additionally, some embodiments may provide moisture management recesses in the form of an identifiable human body part such as a plurality of hearts.

[0265] The wrist portion 251 is expansible so as to hold more securely to the user's wrist. Therefore the embodiment also has an expandable opening means 254 at a wrist end comprises an elastic material 254 along the wrist portion 251, such as an elastomeric band 254 fixed around throughout the wrist portion. In addition, the glove further comprises a securement opening means 255 at the open end of the glove body dorsal portion for fastening the glove body secure about the wrist area, critical in sports activities where the user's hand moves very rapidly such as in golf or football. The securement opening means 255 may include a hook and loop structure 255 whereby a strap 256 or flap is configured to loop around a receiving structure 257 with the glove body and may also include VELCRO fasteners 258, 359, buttons, and the like or other suitable closures thereon. The securement opening means comprising of a hook and loop structure allows the user to ensure an extremely tight fit around the user's hand so that it will not disengage from the user's hand during high velocity sport movements such as swinging a driving wood golf club or throwing a Hail Mary football pass. The securement opening means also allows the user to quickly engage and disengage the glove, important aspects during active sports play such as in golf and in football. The receiving structure 257 may be formed of any resilient and preferred nonelastic material such as a hard plastic 257 or metal such as aluminum, for example. The wrist portion further comprises a slit 271. The slit allows the user to quickly take off or put on the glove, and doing so very easily.

[0266] Providing a slit and securement opening means is especially valuable to users who play a sport that requires the constant removal of the glove, such as in footballwhere players generally take off their gloves during a change of possession, and golfwhere virtually all players take off their glove when preparing to putt a golf ball. The securement opening means is adapted to allow the user to mechanically stretch the strap across the slit and fasten the glove to the user's hand.

[0267] This embodiment further shows how the present invention may also comprise a grip enhancing mechanism 260. Although the embodiment now provides a higher coefficient of friction on the throwing hand of a quarterback or on a golfer's dominant hand for example, one may now further increase grip areas by adding a grip enhancing mechanism on select areas.

[0268] The glove body may include a grip enhancing mechanism 260 comprising a plurality of depressions, a plurality of projections 270 or a tackifier 261 formed on select areas of the palmar portion, thereby creating a higher coefficient than on the rest of the glove body.

[0269] Formed on the illustrated glove is a plurality of projections 270 on a digital segment. These circular projections preferably are spaced apart to allow for added grip and flexibility.

[0270] The illustrated embodiment has a grip enhancing mechanism 270 on select areas of the front of the hand, specifically along the palmar portion of the pinkie finger digital segment 249. The grip enhancing mechanism 260 may comprise a plurality of oval-like projections 270, each having a height of at least about three hundred micrometers, and are clustered to allow for greater hand flexibility and movement while gripping a device or sports object.

[0271] In addition, the palmar portion of the thumb digital segment comprises a grip enhancing mechanism 260 comprising a discreet tackified material 261, such as impregnating a leather 261 with a tackifier resin 261 and then affixing said material onto the rest of the palmar portion of the glove body. This particular configuration provides for maximum grip capabilities for a user, such as a football quarterback. As aforementioned, the quarterback's thumb is not supported by the laces of the football and can therefore slip during harsh weather conditions or when the quarterback is under sudden duress and has to run to avoid being sacked. The glove body palmar portion further comprises of a tackified material 262 that extends to overlay at least a portion of the metacarpophalangeal joint 263 of the user's forefinger when the glove is worn.

[0272] The grip enhancing mechanism formed of these tackfied materials integral to the glove body or formed of tackified grip enhancing panels, are preferably configured to provide a significantly higher coefficient of friction, preferably of at least a Shore A Durometer Coefficient of Friction of between 2.0 and 4.5; Still more preferably a Shore A Durometer Coefficient of Friction of between 2.5 and 4.5.

[0273] As aforementioned, the grip enhancing mechanism comprising of tackifiers may include tackifier resins, such as rosins and their derivatives, terpenes, aliphatic, cycloaliphatic and aromatic resin, and any of a variety of hydrocarbon-type resins, tackifier coatings, tackified materials such tackified leathers and synthetic leathers, and other tackifier substances well commercially known in the art.

[0274] Additionally, embodiments such as this one, may be completely coated with a with a water repellant substance 264 such as SCOTCH GUARD 264 throughout the glove surface.

[0275] As aforementioned, the present invention, including this embodiment may be constructed using standard materials and methods of construction known in the art of making sports gloves. For example, construction of this embodiment may be accomplished by standard methods, such as, by designing the dorsal and palmar sections to meet along a conjoining lateral edge to define a pocket for receiving the eminence of a user's hand. Said dorsal and palmar sections could be conjoined by sewing, for example. One could use any standard method of manufacture and assembly or construction.

[0276] The embodiment is suitably a substantially conventionally constructed sports glove, modified as aforementioned. This particular glove can be made of a polyester and cotton blend for superior comfort or of a synthetic leather latex coated glove for added durability. Other materials that could comprise these glove embodiments include, but are not limited to woven materials that include natural, synthetic or blends of natural and synthetic yarns, thermoextruded or thermoset rubbery embodiments including those made from thermoplastic elastomers, and cloths. Examples of synthetic yarns include nylon, polyester, and spandex (polyurethane) yarns. Additionally, embodiments such as this one, may be coated with a with a water repellant substance, such as a synthetic resin throughout the entire outer surface of the glove.

[0277] FIG. 12 is an illustration of a user gripping a golf club using the conventional interlocking grip method 400.

[0278] As aforementioned, the present invention provides users with several important benefits, in multiple sports. For example, those playing the sport of golf may use this embodiment on their weak hand thereby allowing the golfer significantly more grip capabilities while simultaneously being able to have heightened tactile abilities at the same time on key areas of the interlockedand partially uncoveredforefinger 402. As discussed, the unique digital segment configuration creates synergistic effects. By fully enclosing the user's thumb segment 403 the embodiment maintains critical grip along the user's thumb, essential for a proper golf swing. The fully enclosed thumb also protects the thumb from abrasion especially during the golf down swing. Exposing the thumb would cause the user harm and quite possible make the glove inoperable for use in golf. Equally important is a fully enclosed pinkie finger. The pinkie finger is at the bottom of the shaft and is responsible for minimizing movement by the shaft during the golf downswing. Therefore, it is important that the pinkie finger be enclosed 404 and prevent abrasion. The enclosed pinkie finger also ensures solid grip at one end of the golf grip while enclosing the thumb ensures solid grip at the other end of the weak hand.

[0279] When you use the interlocking grip method, the forefinger 405 of the golfer's weak-hand is placed over his dominant hand and is interlocked with the dominant hand's pinkie finger 406. With this grip, clearly the role of the weak-hand's forefinger has to do with grip but also much more with coordination and feel on the strong-hand to more effectively control the golf swing and to provide greater golf swing consistency. There is, therefore, no real need to cover all of the weak-hand's forefinger, and covering the entire forefinger actually diminishes said forefinger's sensitivities.

[0280] Currently, only full-fingered gloves are used by golfers on their weak-hand. Prior art gloves therefore do not allow a golfer to take complete advantage of his/her preferred grip by allowing for skin contact between both hands and thereby maximizing hand coordination throughout the golf swing. Embodiments of the present invention offer significant improvements to prior art by its unique finger configuration.

[0281] For example, the present invention comprises a glove that covers all of the weak-hands thumb and pinkie finger while leaving the fingertips of the middle, ring and forefinger uncovered such that the skin of each fingertip 407, 408, 402 can touch an object. Users who prefer the interlocking grip method will greatly benefit from significantly increased feel between the now uncovered portion of the interlocked forefinger of the gloved weak hand with the ungloved and interlocked pinkie finger of the strong hand. Using the present invention also allows a user to place their completely enclosed thumb and covered portions of their middle finger, ring finger and pinkie finger directly on and touching the golf club to maintain a solid grip by the glove embodiment, while being able to substantially increase tactile abilities by leaving the fingertips of the user's middle finger and ring finger when the glove is worn. This and other embodiments now allow far greater feel and coordination lost with prior art especially when gripping a golf club using the conventional interlocking grip. The interlocked fingers now allow for far better feedback because both interlocked fingers are now to make skin-to-skin contact, making it easier to adjust a golf swing. Users who prefer this embodiment will greatly benefit from maximum feel between the completely uncovered interlocked fingers of both hands. Exposing the fingertips of the middle and ring fingers are therefore very important to the creation of synergies, in particular for those playing golf using the interlocking grip method, for example. And to those golfers, exposing the fingertip of the forefinger is a critical feature, and is an essential aspect of the present invention and in achieving synergies in: the ability to offer greater golf consistency and accuracy by solving this previously unsolvable problem in prior art; a far more successfully coordinated golf swing; and heightened feel capabilities for better feedback if the golf club inappropriately moves during a golf swing. Additionally, the user's thumb must be completely covered to protect the user from abrasion from the golf club when using the interlocking grip method. Exposing the fingertip of the user's thumb for example would essentially make the glove inoperable. Using this embodiment will allow a user to maximize feel with both hands not just with only the standard ungloved dominant hand, a far superior option than by using the prior art 409.

[0282] FIG. 13 is an illustration of a standard way of gripping a football when preparing the throw a football 410. The illustration is provided on the webpage wikihow.com/Throw-a-spiral which shows a conventional way to hold and throw a football where you place your middle finger 411 and ring finger 412 on top of the football laces 413, your Index [forefinger] finger 414 on the strap at one end of the top portion of the football and away from the laces, and your pinkie finger 415 at the other end of the top portion of the football and also away from the laces 413. Finally your thumb 416 is placed on the bottom side of the football and is the only digital segment on the bottom side of the football.

[0283] Whereas the middle and ring fingers over the laces have a solid grip on the ballprimarily due to the football laces on the ballthe three digital segments off the laces (thumb, forefinger and pinkie finger) are virtually unsupported and therefore have a relatively weaker grip, creating a weak overall grip on the football. This weak overall grip becomes more pronounced when added stress is placed on the thumb or forefinger which is not able to use any portion of the football laces when gripping the football. Unfortunately, one need only view the statistics to see that fumbles persist as an insoluble problem, even at the professional level today. In the 2010 National Football League (NFL) season, there were only ten players who had 9 or more fumbles in the season. All ten players were quarterbacks (The Official NFL Record & Fact Book, 2011). It is therefore essential that the thumb and pinkie finger of the user's hand be supported by fully enclosing said digital segments with the glove and thereby provide necessary and critical grip capabilities. At the same time, at least the fingertips of the user's middle finger and ring finger must be exposed so that it will not be encumbered and able to fit snugly between and on top of the football laces as well as to provide necessary heightened tactile sensitivities with these fingers.

[0284] FIG. 14 is a replication of a recent ad 420 promoting the Nov1, 2018 NFL game of the evening between the Oakland Raiders and the San Francisco 49ers. Illustrated is prima facie evidence of a standard method of a standard method of gripping a football when preparing to throw the football. Shown is the Oakland Raiders Quarterback Derek Carr's 421 glove-less throwing hand which has his middle finger 423 and ring finger 424 on top of the football laces 425 while his thumb, forefinger 426 and pinkie finger 427 are holding the football as best they can.

[0285] As has been discussed using embodiments of the present invention now allow a football quarterback, for example, to place the throwing hand's thumb and pinkie fingernow covered by the present invention gloveon the football and significantly increasing the grip and control of the football while simultaneously maintaining maximum tactile abilities by leaving uncovered the fingertips of his forefinger, middle finger, and ring finger. This unique digital segment configuration allows the quarterback the ability to place the exposed fingertips of the user's forefinger, middle finger, and ring finger over the football laces unencumbered while simultaneously maintaining significant feel on the football. This and other features now essentially make the sports glove more operable, novel and significantly superior to prior art in these areas.