SNOW SPORT BAG

Abstract

Certain embodiments of the invention disclosed herein include a bag to store and provide easy transport of a pair (or multiple pairs) of skis or a snowboard(s) along with poles, boots, helmets, goggles and other ski or snowboard gear. Such embodiments provide a quick, efficient, and compact system for carrying sporting gear. Bags disclosed herein can include a shell having back surface for facing a user, a front surface, two opposing sides, a bottom surface, at least one shoulder strap, and an upper end. The upper end defines an upper opening sized to receive a pair of skis and accompanying bindings in a lengthwise direction. The bag defines a bottom opening in the bottom surface sized to receive the pair of skis in a lengthwise direction. The backpack can include a collapsible sleeve configured to extend from the defined bottom opening. The bag can also include a releasable flap attached to the bottom surface of the bag member and configured to cover the defined bottom opening and be released from covering the defined bottom opening to contain the collapsible sleeve in a collapsed position within the bag. The centrally carried skis then provide a balanced and efficient means of carrying winter sports equipment.

Description

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to backpacks, bags, packs, and other devices and articles for carrying items. The present disclosure also relates to bags for carrying heavy or bulky items such boots, snowboards, skis, and associated sporting equipment.

SUMMARY

Conventional bags for carrying winter sports gear, especially winter sports gear that is relatively long compared to a conventional bag or backpack, typically use a carrying means that involves either strapping long sporting gear to the exterior of a bag, or creating a relatively large bag that is sufficiently long to have a compartment that entirely contains or encloses the long sporting gear article. Both such an exterior strapping technique and providing a large compartment suffer from one or more disadvantages. For example, strapping skis to the exterior of a bag can involve a complicated system of straps or paneling members that requires a relatively long time to engage and requires resting a bag on the ground to implement the strapping system. With respect to bags that are large enough to provide a compartment that entirely contains skis, such bags can be awkward by virtue of their size and the need to lay the bag on the ground to load and unload.

Certain embodiments of the invention disclosed herein include a bag to store and provide easy transport of a pair (or multiple pairs) of skis or a snowboard(s) along with poles, boots, helmets, goggles and other ski or snowboard gear. Such embodiments provide a quick, efficient, and compact system for carrying sporting gear.

One embodiment includes a backpack for skiing or snowboarding equipment. The backpack has a bag member that includes a back surface for facing a user (such as a user's back, side, etc.), a front surface, two opposing sides, a bottom surface, at least one shoulder strap, and an upper end. The upper end defines an upper opening sized to receive a pair of skis and accompanying bindings in a lengthwise direction. The bag member defines a bottom opening in the bottom surface. The defined bottom opening is sized to receive the pair of skis in a lengthwise direction. The backpack has a collapsible sleeve attached to the bag member. The collapsible sleeve is configured to extend from the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag member in such a way that the collapsible sleeve extends away from the bag member. The collapsible sleeve is sized at least to receive a lengthwise portion of the pair of skis when the collapsible sleeve is extended away from the bag member. The backpack includes a releasable flap attached to the bottom surface of the bag member. The releasable flap can be configured to cover the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag member and also be configured to be released from covering the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag member. The releasable flap can also be configured to contain the collapsible sleeve in a collapsed position within the bag member when covering the defined bottom opening. The bag member of the backpack is generally configured to carry the pair of skis with a first portion of the pair of skis contained within the collapsible sleeve when the collapsible sleeve is extended from the bag member, a second portion of the pair of skis is contained within the bag member, and then a third or remaining portion of the pair of skis extends beyond the upper end of the bag member in that it protrudes from the backpack.

In another embodiment, a ski bag or snowboarding bag includes a backpack having a top portion and a bottom portion, at least one compartment for containing equipment, and at least one shoulder strap for carrying the backpack. The backpack defines or includes an internal sleeve extending from the top portion of the backpack to the bottom portion of the backpack. The internal sleeve is sized for receiving a pair of skis including bindings. The internal sleeve also defines a top opening at the top portion of the backpack. The backpack includes an external sleeve that extends from (or is extendible from) the bottom portion of the backpack. The external sleeve is configured to form an extension of the internal sleeve. The external sleeve can optionally be sized for receiving an end section of the pair of skis without permitting full passage of accompanying ski bindings. The internal sleeve and external sleeve then form a substantially continuous sleeve for receiving the pair of skis when passing from the top portion of the backpack into the internal sleeve and continuing into the external sleeve. The continuous sleeve is generally configured to contain a lengthwise portion of the pair of skis, with a remaining lengthwise portion of the pair of skis protruding from the top portion of the backpack. The bottom portion of the backpack can include a releasable flap for containing the external sleeve within the backpack in a collapsed configuration. The releasable flap is configured to release in response to a contact force, such as either a pushing or pulling action on the releasable flap.

In yet another embodiment, a bag for skiing or snowboarding equipment includes a shell having a back surface, a front surface, two opposing sides, a bottom surface, at least one shoulder strap, and an upper portion. The upper portion of the shell defines an upper opening sized to receive at least one ski and accompanying bindings (or snowboard and accompanying bindings) in a lengthwise direction. The shell defines or has a bottom opening in the bottom surface. The defined bottom opening can optionally be sized to permit passage of a lengthwise portion of the ski and accompanying bindings without permitting full passage of the accompanying bindings. Alternatively, the opening can permit full passage of skis and accompanying bindings. The bag is then generally configured to carry the ski with a first portion of the ski passed through the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface and extending away from the shell, a second portion of the ski that includes a portion of the accompanying bindings contained within the shell, and a third portion of the ski protruding from the upper end and extending away from the shell.

Thus, such embodiments provide advantages over conventional techniques. Conventional techniques focus on strapping skis to the exterior of a pack, which can result in a slower loading time, or else provide a large compartment that entirely encloses the skis. For everyday use, it is easier to simply drop a pair of skis in the sleeve or central compartment, and then quickly strap or cinch the skis at the top of the bag. The centrally carried skis then provide a balanced and efficient means of carrying winter sports equipment.

Example embodiments as described herein may be implemented in products and bags such as those manufactured by Kulkea, LLC, Westwood, Mass., USA.

As discussed above, embodiments herein are well suited for use in bags for carrying skiing equipment and snowboarding equipment. It should be noted, however, that embodiments herein are not limited to use in such applications and that the techniques discussed herein are well suited for other applications as well. For example, such techniques can be used for carrying fishing poles, hockey sticks and skates, lacrosse equipment, golf clubs, landscaping tools, mechanical equipment, etc.

Additionally, although each of the different features, techniques, configurations, etc. herein may be discussed in different places of this disclosure, it is intended that each of the concepts can be executed independently of each other or in combination with each other. Accordingly, the present invention can be embodied and viewed in many different ways.

Note that this summary section herein does not specify every embodiment and/or incrementally novel aspect of the present disclosure or claimed invention. Instead, this summary only provides a preliminary discussion of different embodiments and corresponding points of novelty over conventional techniques. For additional details and/or possible perspectives of the invention and embodiments, the reader is directed to the Detailed Description section and corresponding figures of the present disclosure as further discussed below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following more particular description of preferred embodiments herein as illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which like reference characters refer to the same parts throughout the different views. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, with emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the embodiments, principles and concepts.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a backpack according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a backpack and extendible sleeve according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a backpack and extendible sleeve shown carrying a pair of skis according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a bottom surface of a backpack according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a bottom surface of a backpack showing a released flap according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a bottom surface of a backpack showing an extended collapsible sleeve according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are a top view of a backpack shown carrying a pair of skis according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are a top perspective view of a backpack shown carrying a pair of skis according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a backpack and extendible sleeve shown carrying a pair of skis according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 10 is a rear view of a backpack according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 11 is a rear view of a backpack showing support members according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 12 is a side view of backpack carrying positions according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 13 is a front view of a backpack for carrying multiple pairs of skis according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIGS. 14A and 14B are a top perspective view of a backpack shown carrying a pair of skis according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of backpacks showing a top cover according to embodiments disclosed herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Articles disclosed herein include a bag that provides a carrying mechanism for transporting items that are relatively long compared to the bag. The bag generally carries elongated items through a central portion, compartment, or sleeve of the bag. When the bag is positioned on a user, such as with shoulder straps, the elongated items can be carried in the bag in a substantially vertical orientation. Such a transport mechanism provides a quick and efficient means for loading, and unloading of various items.

While there are many different types of items that embodiments of the bag can carry, for convenience in describing embodiments of the bag the following description and figures describe a snow sport bag. The snow sport bag provides a transport mechanism for one or more pairs of skis (or snowboard(s)) as well as poles, boots, helmets, hats, gloves, goggles and other snow equipment common to skiing, snowboarding or other outdoor snow sports.

Referring now to FIG. 1, bag 100 in this illustration is generally configured as a backpack that includes several storage compartments. The bag 100 defines a top opening 107 through which a pair of skis or snowboard can be inserted vertically into the bag 100. Strapping mechanism 109 can be used for securing skis or a snowboard to the bag, or securing the bag to the skis. The strapping mechanism 109 can be embodied as a strap that wraps around an inserted pair of skis or snowboard. When tightened or fastened, the strapping mechanism 109 can secure the pair of skis or snowboard at, above, or below the binding of the skis (toe or heel bindings). Handle 112 or handle 114 can be used to lift the bag 100 and hold the bag 100 above the ground while inserting a pair of skis. Thus, the bag 100 does not need to lay down on the ground for loading. Conventional bags may need to be rested on shoulder straps for loading and unloading skis. This is undesirable, especially if loading/unloading in a slushy or muddy parking lot. Note that embodiments can be used for skis, snowboards, ski boards, and many other elongated objects. For convenience, the following description primarily refers to skis, but it should be understood that snowboards and other objects can be substituted for skis.

Side compartments 116 and 118 can be used for containing ski or snowboard boots, footwear, or other equipment. Side compartments 116 and 118 can include a vent flap 117. In this example, vent flap 117 is shown in a closed position and fastened by a zipper mechanism. Front compartment 121 and front compartment 123 can also be used for storing equipment and various items. Shoulder straps 125 enable the bag 100 to be worn or carried as a backpack or shoulder bag. The bag 100 can include a top cover for covering the top opening 107 using any conventional fastening mechanism.

In FIG. 2, bag 100 is shown with collapsible sleeve 130. Collapsible sleeve 130, when bag 100 is oriented in an upright position as shown, extends downwardly from the bottom of bag 100. That is, collapsible sleeve 130 extends away from bag 100. Collapsible sleeve 130 can use a telescoping mechanism when constructed of a rigid or semi-rigid material. When constructed of a flexible material or type of fabric, the collapsible sleeve 130 can collapse or fold-up by virtue of properties of the material itself, or can otherwise be reduced in size so that the bag 100 is the general size and shape of a backpack. Collapsible sleeve 130 can include length adjustment buckles 136, or other socket hardware for shortening a length that the collapsible sleeve 130 can extend beyond the bottom of bag 100. Front compartment 121 is shown in an open position revealing an interior goggle pocket 138. Vent flap 117 is shown in an open position, revealing vent 127. Vent 127 can be an opening, or use a mesh material that enables rapid air flow in and out of side compartment 116. Each side compartment can have such a vent. Side compartments 116 and 118 can also include grommets or drain holes (not shown) for snow and slush on the bottom of boots contained inside side compartments to drain from the bag 100.

In other words, bag 100 includes a main elongated ski board compartment that passes through the main bag area and that continues into a sleeve. This board compartment is shaped to hold a snowboard or pair of skis and poles that may be inserted, board tail end first, into the board compartment. The elongated board compartment (main compartment) begins at the top of the main bag area and provides a channel through the center of the bag 100.

In FIG. 3, the bag 100 is illustrated to show how bag 100 can carry a pair of skis. Note that the pair of skis is generally positioned vertically within bag 100, with a portion of the skis extending into the collapsible sleeve 130, a portion of the skis being contained within an interior compartment or interior sleeve of bag 100, and a portion of the skis extending or protruding beyond the top of bag 100. Strapping mechanism 109 is shown as wrapped around the skis and over the ski bindings such that the pair of skis cannot be lifted out of the bag 100 without releasing the strapping mechanism 109. Helmet strap 137 can be used to secure a helmet to the bag 100. Helmet strap 137 is concealable within compartment 138 when not in use. Helmet strap (or harness) 137 can be made of a stretchable material to remain close to the bag 100 when securing the helmet.

FIG. 4 shows a bottom view of bag 100. This view illustrates releasable flap 140 on the bottom surface 141 of the bag 100. The releasable flap 140 can be pivotally attached or connected to the bag 100 at one point, and then releasably connected to the bag 100 by a zipper or magnetic fastener. This view also shows bottom handle 143, which can be useful for handling the bag when resting on the back of bag 100.

FIG. 5 illustrates the releasable flap 140 in a released position, though still attached to bag 100 along one edge of releasable flap 140. Collapsible sleeve 130 is in a collapsed or compacted position and visible within bag 100. Magnetic fasteners 144 can be used to releasably connect the releasable flap 140 to the bag 100. Note that magnetic material can be embedded within the bottom surface 141 of the bag 100 or embedded within the releasable flap 140 itself or both, with ferromagnetic materials in either location. Without zipping the releasable flap 140 to the bag 100 using zipper mechanism 142, the releasable flap can function as a quick-release flap. The releasable flap can be disconnected from the bag 100 such as by pulling the flap open, or inserting a pair of skis through the bag 100 and pushing the flap open with the skis. For example a user can hold the bag 100 above the ground, using handle 112, at a height convenient for inserting a pair of skis, and then insert a pair of skis through the center of the bag 100. As the skis pass through the bag, the skis will push the releasable flap 140 to an open position, and while pushing the collapsible sleeve 130 into an extended position.

FIG. 6 shows the collapsible sleeve 130 extended from inside the bag 100. Collapsible sleeve 130 can include zippered length extender 145 for extending a length that the collapsible sleeve 130 extends from the bottom surface of the bag 100. The zippered length extender 145 can also be used to completely disconnect the collapsible sleeve 130 from the bag 100, which detachment can be useful for cleaning sediment and debris from the collapsible sleeve 130. Length adjustment buckles 136 can be used for shortening a length that the collapsible sleeve 130 extends from the bottom surface of the bag 100.

FIGS. 7A and 7B show a top view of the bag 100 to illustrate fastening skis to the bag 100 that have been inserted into the bag. In FIG. 7A, a pair of skis has been inserted into bag 100. The skis are shown back-to-back with accompanying bindings. Strapping mechanism 109 is shown attached to a point on the back surface 147 of bag 100. The strap of strapping mechanism 109 loops around the pair of skis, through a ring 148 across from the back surface 147, on the other side of the opening 107, and around back to the back surface 147. With the strap looped around the pair of skis, the strapping mechanism 109 can be secured. FIG. 7B shows the strap pulled tight or cinched such that the strap snugly wraps around the pair of skis, but at a point above the ski bindings.

FIGS. 8A and 8B show an enlarged perspective view of the top of the bag 100 to illustrate fastening skis to the bag 100 as described in FIGS. 7A and 7B.

FIG. 9 shows an alternate configuration for securing a pair of skis to the bag 100.

In FIG. 9, collapsible sleeve 130 has been shortened using length adjusting buckles 136. With collapsible sleeve 130 having a shortened length, the toe binding of the pair of skis protrudes beyond the top portion of bag 100. Strapping mechanism 109 is secured around the pair of skis, but below the toe binding of the pair of skis. The heel binding of the pair of skis is positioned within the bag 100.

FIG. 10 shows a view of the back surface of the bag 100. Shoulder straps 125 can be configured as removable. In this embodiment, the shoulder straps 125 are attached to a loop on the back surface of the bag 100 using a hook-and-loop (e.g. Velcro) fastening mechanism 151 and 152. FIG. 10 illustrates a dual shoulder strap system, however, the bag can also include a single shoulder strap design, similar to conventional messenger bags. The bag 100 can also include a waist belt 153 as a mechanism to help to stabilize the bag 100 on a user's back and to distribute weight to a user's legs. The waist belt 153 can be buckled together around a user's waist, and, when unbuckled, each side of the waist belt 153 can be tucked into pockets 154. Shoulder straps 125 can include cords 155 for attaching items such a gloves.

FIG. 11 shows removable framing components. Bag 100 can be embodied either as a framed bag or a frameless bag. Each embodiment has its respective advantages. The bag 100 can also be embodied with removable framing components. For example, a structural panel 161 can be inserted into bag 100 as a support member, and can be easily removed to more easily compact the bag 100 when not in use. Removable support members enable the bag 100 to be compacted for storage such as in a locker at a ski lodge or other storage space of limited dimensions. Support bars 162 can also be used in addition to, or in place of, support panel 161. The support bars 162 can also be removed for bag compaction. A framed bag, that is, a bag having at least some rigid framing members, is helpful to keep skis or a snowboard positioned securely or snugly to a user's body and to prevent ski ends/tips bumping a user's legs. FIG. 10 also shows loops 159 through which shoulder straps can be secured to the bag 100 using the hook-and-loop fastening mechanism 151 and 152. With this shoulder strap securing mechanism, a securing strap having hook-and-loop fasteners is threaded through loops 159 and around itself to hold the shoulder straps to the bag.

FIG. 12 shows a side and rear view of various carrying positions. Note that the bag 100 can be carried with a strap over one shoulder similar to a golf or messenger bag carrying style, or can be worn as a conventional backpack. The backpack itself, or a the external sleeve can be angled

FIG. 13 shows a front view of bag 100 configured to carry multiple skis. Example embodiments can include multi-ski bags that can carry two, three, or more pairs of skis with or without boots. Such bags are useful so that a parent can carry skis for one or more children. Bags can include ski pole carrying mechanisms. In some embodiments, poles can be inserted in the internal sleeve with the skis to be carried in the same sleeve, inserted within an adjacent sleeve, or otherwise strapped on the bag. The bag can accommodate different ski positions. For example, when a pair of skis is inserted in the bag, the bindings can point toward the sides of the bag or the front and back of the bag.

FIGS. 14A and 14B show an enlarged perspective view of the top of the bag 100 to illustrate fastening skis to the bag 100 using a cinching mechanism 165. Note that when cinched around the pair of skis, material from the cinching mechanism can hold the pair of skis within bag 100 by preventing ski binding to pass through the cinched top opening.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of three backpacks illustrating use of top cover 167 as an optional feature for covering the top of bag 100 when the bag 100 is carrying skis and when no skis are contained within bag 100.

There are many configurations and embodiments possible for embodiments of the invention.

One embodiment is a backpack for skiing (or snowboarding) equipment. Such a backpack has a bag member, which can be a typical main or central compartment of a backpack. The bag member includes a back surface for facing a user's back, a front surface, two opposing sides, a bottom surface, at least one shoulder strap, and an upper end. The back surface for facing the user can be a surface that would contact a user's back when carried over a shoulder. The upper end defines an upper opening sized to receive a pair of skis and accompanying bindings in a lengthwise direction. That is, the backpack can include a top opening for inserting skis in a generally vertical orientation. The bag member defines a bottom opening in the bottom surface. This defined bottom opening is sized to receive the pair of skis in a lengthwise direction.

The backpack includes a collapsible sleeve attached to the bag member. The collapsible sleeve can be configured to extend from the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag member such that the collapsible sleeve extends away from the bag member. In other words, the backpack can have a bottom opening out of which the collapsible sleeve extends in a generally downward direction. The collapsible sleeve is sized to receive a lengthwise portion of the pair of skis when the collapsible sleeve is extended away from the bag member. Note that while the collapsible sleeve extends from the defined bottom opening, the collapsible sleeve itself does not need to be attached to the bag member at the bottom opening or bottom surface. The collapsible sleeve can be attached to the bag member at a central location within the bag, or at a top portion of the bag, or attached to the bottom surface. In any attachment configuration, the collapsible sleeve nevertheless at least extends from the bottom opening and away from the bag member.

The collapsible sleeve can include a closed end that prevents passage of the pair of skis beyond a length that the collapsible sleeve is able to extend away from the bag member. That is, the collapsible sleeve is fully or sufficiently closed-ended to stop and hold a pair of skis within the sleeve as extended from the bag member. The closed sleeve can include grommets or another draining mechanism to help melted snow drain. The collapsible sleeve can also include length adjustment mechanism that permits adjustment of the length that the collapsible sleeve is able to extend away from the bag member.

The backpack includes a releasable flap attached to the bottom surface of the bag member. The releasable flap can be configured to cover the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag member and can also be configured to be released from covering the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag member. The releasable flap is configured to contain the collapsible sleeve in a collapsed position within the bag member when covering the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface. That is, the releasable flap can hold the collapsible sleeve hidden within the backpack. Note that the releasable flap can be pivotally attached to the bottom surface, such as by having one side or edge of the flap sewn to the backpack so that the releasable flap can swing away from the opening, and be returned to covering the opening.

The releasable flap can be reconnected to the bottom surface by various attachment mechanisms, such as with a magnetic fastening mechanism, zippers, buckles, hook and loop fasteners, snaps, etc. In addition to, or in place of, the magnetic fastening mechanism, the backpack can include a zipper mechanism to more securely connect the releasable flap to the bottom surface. The zipper mechanism can prevent quick release of the releasable flap. For example, the magnetic mechanism can be selected to attach the releasable flap to the bottom surface only with a magnetic attraction sufficient to hold the collapsible sleeve within the bag member. With such a magnetic connection, it is easy for a user to pull or push open the flap with minimal force as a quick-release feature. While such a quick release feature is beneficial for fast loading of skis, when the backpack is not in use to carry skis, the zipper mechanism can connect the flap to the bottom surface to provide a relatively stronger connection. With such a stronger connection, the bag member can be used to carry other equipment or items, when the bag is not in use carrying skis, without inadvertently causing the collapsible sleeve to extend and fill with equipment.

In this backpack, the bag member is generally configured to carry the pair of skis with a first portion of the pair of skis within the collapsible sleeve when extended from the bag member, a second portion of the pair of skis within the bag member, and a third portion of the pair of skis extending beyond the upper end of the bag member. In other words, the backpack defines a compartment that carries or contains a portion of the skis or snowboard in that the compartment surrounds a section of the skis. Thus, when secured, the pair of skis is prevented from movement in both directions. The bag prevents movement in one direction by either the sleeve or bottom opening, and in the other direction by a cinch, drawstring, strapping mechanism, etc.

The backpack can also include a fastening mechanism attached to the upper end of the bag member, the fastening mechanism configured to secure the pair of skis within the bag member. This fastening mechanism can be one or more straps, a cinching mechanism, a rocking hard dock that can lock into place, etc. A cinch top, can be embodied as a generally round opening with a drawstring closure, and can provide stabilization of the skis while transporting the bag 100 and can prevent debris/snow from entering the board compartment. The cinch top may be a pull drawstring, elastic, tie, strap, zipper hook-and-loop fasteners or other closing means.

The backpack can also include a first footwear compartment positioned at a first opposing side of the two opposing sides, and a second footwear compartment positioned at a second opposing side of the two opposing sides. In other words, the backpack can include two side compartments, which can be sized for containing ski boots, footwear, or other equipment. The backpack can include a rigid support structure with at least one removable rigid support member, such as a rigid or semi-rigid panel or framing rods. The backpack can include a helmet strap storage compartment, and a helmet strap attached to the bag member at a location within the helmet strap storage compartment so that the helmet strap can be configured to extend from helmet strap storage compartment to strap a helmet to the front surface of the bag member. This provides a concealable helmet or gear strap. The backpack can also include removable or releasable shoulder straps, which can be entirely removed from the bag member, or detached at one or more connection locations.

Another embodiment includes a ski bag for transporting skis. This ski bag includes a backpack having a top portion and a bottom portion, at least one compartment for containing equipment (such as a central or primary compartment) and at least one shoulder strap for carrying the backpack. This ski bag includes a sleeve with two identifiable sections. An internal sleeve extends from the top portion of the backpack to the bottom portion of the backpack. This internal sleeve is sized for receiving a pair of skis (or snowboard) including bindings. The internal sleeve defines a top opening at the top portion of the backpack, that is, a top opening for receiving the pair of skis.

An external sleeve is extendible from the bottom portion of the backpack and configured to form an extension of the internal sleeve. The external sleeve can be sized for receiving an end section (toe or heel end) of the pair of skis without permitting full passage of accompanying ski bindings. For example, either a cross-sectional dimension of the external sleeve, or a length of the external sleeve, prevents a pair of skis passing completely through the external sleeve. The internal sleeve and external sleeve then form a continuous sleeve for receiving the pair skis when passing skis from the top portion of the backpack into the internal sleeve and continuing into the external sleeve such that the continuous sleeve contains a lengthwise portion of the pair of skis, with a remaining lengthwise portion of the pair of skis protruding from the top portion of the backpack. The internal sleeve/compartment and external sleeve can be any geometric cross section. In some embodiments, the sleeve can have four walls, three walls, rounded, etc.

The bottom portion of the ski bag can optionally include a releasable flap for containing the external sleeve within the backpack in a collapsed configuration. The releasable flap is then configured to release in response to a contact force, such as a pulling or pushing force. The ski bag can also include a fastening mechanism attached to the top portion of the backpack. The fastening mechanism can be configured to secure the pair of skis within the internal sleeve such that when the pair of skis is secured within the backpack, and the backpack is positioned generally vertically and resting on ski ends in the external sleeve, the backpack remains in an elevated position. This is advantageous because a user can rest the ski bag (containing skis) on the ski ends, resulting in the ski bag being held at a height convenient for accessing compartments in the ski bag and lifting the bag up to the user's shoulder(s).

The ski bag can also include a magnetic fastening mechanism that releasably connects the releasable flap to the bottom portion, and/or a zipper mechanism that securely attaches the releasable flap to the bottom portion to prevent quick release of the releasable flap. The ski bag can also include a carrying handle attached to the bottom portion of the backpack.

In yet another embodiment, a bag for skiing (or snowboarding) equipment includes a shell. The shell includes a back surface, a front surface, two opposing sides, a bottom surface, at least one shoulder strap, and an upper portion. The upper portion of the shell defines an upper opening sized to receive a ski (or pair of skis) and accompanying bindings in a lengthwise direction. The shell defines a bottom opening in the bottom surface. The defined bottom opening can optionally be sized to permit passage of a lengthwise portion of the ski and accompanying bindings without permitting full passage of the accompanying bindings. The bag is generally configured to carry the ski with a first portion of the ski passed through the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface and extending away from the shell, with a second portion of the ski (that includes a portion of the accompanying bindings) contained within the shell, and with a third portion of the ski protruding from the upper end and extending away from the shell.

This bag can include a first footwear compartment positioned at a first opposing side of the two opposing sides, and a second footwear compartment positioned at a second opposing side of the two opposing sides. The first and second footwear compartments can be angled relative to the front and back surfaces such that the first and second footwear compartments are closer to each other at the bottom surface of the shell than at the upper portion. Thus, a distance between the first and second footwear compartments at the bottom surface can optionally be sized to restrict the defined bottom opening to prevent full passage of the accompanying bindings of the ski, by virtue of a defined passage that is restricted in size.

The bag can also include a releasable flap attached to the bottom surface of the bag member, with the releasable flap configured to cover the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag member and configured to be released from covering the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag member. The shell can also include a rigid support structure with at least one removable rigid support member. A fastening mechanism attached to the upper portion of the shell can be configured to secure the ski within the shell.

Another embodiment includes an improved backpack for carrying a pair of footwear equipment. This improved backpack has a front and a back and left and right side compartments. The left and right side compartment are of predetermined size, with each side compartment having side walls, a bottom, a back wall and a front wall. The left and right side compartments can be angularly joined together at the front of the backpack to form, with the back, a generally isosceles triangularly shaped interior compartment between the side compartments such that a portion of the front of the backpack is defined by the front walls of the side compartments. Improvements to this particular backpack design include a top opening, at the top of the interior compartment, sized to receive a pair of skis (or snowboard) and accompanying bindings in a lengthwise direction. A bottom opening at the bottom of the interior compartment, the bottom opening can optionally be configured to permit passage of a lengthwise portion of the pair of skis and accompanying bindings without permitting full passage of the accompanying bindings. For example, the bottom opening can include a strapping/fastening mechanism that prevents full passage of the accompanying binding, or by virtue of an opening sufficiently large or geometrically shaped to permit the pair of skis, but without enabling the accompanying bindings to pass through.

This improved backpack can also include a releasable flap configured to cover the bottom opening at the bottom of the interior compartment and configured to be released from covering the bottom opening of the interior compartment. In an alternate improvement, the backpack includes a collapsible sleeve attached to the improved backpack. The collapsible sleeve can be configured to extend from the bottom opening such that the collapsible sleeve extends away from the interior compartment. The collapsible sleeve can be sized to receive a lengthwise portion of the pair of skis when the collapsible sleeve is extended away from the interior compartment. Note that with the collapsible sleeve feature, the bottom opening does not need to prevent full passage of the skis and bindings because the collapsible sleeve can provide this feature either by virtue of a given cross-sectional size, or by having a closed end on the collapsible sleeve.

The improved backpack can also include a fastening mechanism attached adjacent to the top opening for securing the pair of skis within the interior compartment. The top opening at the top of the interior compartment can be sized to receive an article of length greater than the top-to-bottom dimensions of the side walls of the side compartments. The bottom opening, at the bottom of the interior compartment, the bottom opening sized to permit passage of a lengthwise portion of the article of length greater than the top-to-bottom dimensions of the side walls of the side compartments. Improvements can also include a releasable flap configured to cover the bottom opening at the bottom of the interior compartment and configured to be released from covering the bottom opening of the interior compartment. This improved backpack improves on a baseline design as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,881,708, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

Another embodiment includes a bag having a first compartment defining an opening to carry at least one snowboard or ski board, at least one second compartment defining an opening to carry related equipment, with the first and second compartments coupled together. The second compartment is aligned to a location where the first compartment carries the at least one snowboard or ski board at a substantially central location along the snowboard or ski board.

Any of the embodiments disclosed herein can be constructed of different types of materials. For example, each of the walls or surfaces can be constructed of soft, rigid, or semi rigid materials. Walls/surfaces can be constructed with hard plastic or bendable foam depending on preferences or applications for a particular embodiment. The rigid paneling provides a bag that assists with snug fit to a user's body, while a soft or bendable material provides the ability to compact the bag (either partially or fully) when not in use for easier storage. The bag can be constructed of waterproof material. The bottom surface can be made of relatively rugged material because users may rest the bag in slush and pavement. The shell can be constructed of a durable and flexible waterproof material such as canvas, cloth, leather, vinyl, or other suitable flexible and durable outdoor and weather proof or water resistant material.

Another advantage of certain embodiments of the top fastener is one-handed fastening. In a common ski loading procedure, a user can hold the bag with one hand, insert a pair of skis with a free hand, and then secure the top fastening mechanism using the free hand after inserting the pair of skis through the bag. For example, after inserting the skis through the backpack the user can use a single hand to cinch a top covering over the bindings or wrap a strap around and secure the strap.

In some embodiments, either the skis or the bag itself can be slanted. For example, shoulder straps can be positioned so that the entire back is slanted or angled relative to a user's body. In another embodiment, the bag generally rests vertically on a user's back, but the internal sleeve or compartment causes the skis to be angled as a means to prevent ski ends bumping against a user's leg.

The straps on the bag, in general, can include respective stowage pockets to prepare the bag for airline travel or other mechanized transportation where having the straps stowed is advantageous. Also for extended travel, embodiments can include an attachable/detachable top as a ski/snowboard cover that can be zippered or fastened to the top of the bag at the top opening to completely cover the skis. The top cover can couple, for example, via a zipper, hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, straps or other attachment means to the main bag at or nearby the cinch area to fully cover the skis or snowboard when carried in the bag. A detachable wheel or wheel mechanism can also be attached to the bottom of the bag or the bottom of the external sleeve for easier travel over extended distances. In one configuration, the sleeve can include built-in rollers or wheels at the tail end of the sleeve allowing the snow sport bag to be carried via a handle on the main bag section (or via the ski ends) and having the sleeve follow on the ground by rolling on the wheels.

Bags can have a double or single shoulder strap system. In configurations of a double shoulder strap, each shoulder strap can include a detachable buckle or strap that detaches at the bottom connection to the back pack. With such a releasable connection, a user wearing the bag with a shoulder strap on both shoulders, can release one of the lower shoulder strap connections to quickly convert the bag into a single strap bag. With the new single strap configuration, a user can easily swing the bag to the side of his body, which can be useful for accessing storage compartments of the backpack or traveling under a low doorway.

In embodiments without an external sleeve or collapsible sleeve, various mechanisms can be used to prevent full passage of skis or snowboards thorough the central compartment. For example, in addition to, or in place of, a bottom opening sized to prevent full passage of the skis and bindings, the bottom opening can be slotted or include several shock cords to catch skis at the bindings. The cords or binding mechanism can also be positioned at a central portion of the bag to help keep the skis positioned higher to prevent ski ends bumping on legs.

In some configurations, the upper shoulder strap connection to the back surface of the bag member can include a pivot so that the lower strap connection can be switched from one side of the bag to another. This allows a single strap to accommodate left-handed or right-handed users, allowing the bag to be comfortably hung on the left or right shoulder of a person. An ergonomic design also ensures proper weight distribution for comfortable and safe transport of a fully loaded bag. Thus, straps can have multiple mount points.

The snow sport bag can have shoulder straps constructed of a rigid material such as carbon fiber or plastic. Additionally, the bag can accommodate alternative placement and orientation of the ski or snowboard boots. In particular, the boot compartments can be oriented such that the sole of each boot faces the back surface allowing the boots to lay flat against a user's shoulders for even weight distribution. Boots can also be coupled either in compartments or can be strapped to the exterior of the main bag area.

While certain embodiments of the top fastener include a strapping or cinching mechanism, other fastening mechanisms can be used. For example, the bag can include interlocking side hard docks that extend out of the top opening for inserting skis, and then slide into the bag compartment and lock together to secure the skis to the bag. The dual interlocking hard docks can keep the skis in place by locking together or by virtue of a friction or interference fit using the weight of the skis to pull the hard docks together. Alternatively a single hard dock positioned on a single side of the main compartment can slide out and back in to receive skis and secure skis to the bag. In another example, the top opening can include rubber stoppers that fold down when skis are slid into the bag, and then secure the skis to the bag. The interior compartment can also include pegs to help guide and position skis.

Those skilled in the art will also understand that there can be many variations made to the operations of the techniques explained above while still achieving the same objectives of the invention. Such variations are intended to be covered by the scope of this invention. As such, the foregoing description of embodiments of the invention are not intended to be limiting. Rather, any limitations to embodiments of the invention are presented in the following claims.

Claims

1. A backpack for skiing equipment, the backpack comprising: a bag member including a back surface for facing a user, a front surface, two opposing sides, a bottom surface, at least one shoulder strap, and an upper end, the upper end defining an upper opening sized to receive at least one pair of skis and accompanying bindings in a lengthwise direction, the bag member defining a bottom opening in the bottom surface, the defined bottom opening sized to receive the at least one pair of skis in a lengthwise direction;a collapsible sleeve attached to the bag member, the collapsible sleeve configured to extend from the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag member such that the collapsible sleeve extends away from the bag member, the collapsible sleeve sized to receive a lengthwise portion of the at least one pair of skis when the collapsible sleeve is extended away from the bag member;a releasable flap attached to the bottom surface of the bag member, the releasable flap configured to cover the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag member and configured to be released from covering the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag member, the releasable flap configured to contain the collapsible sleeve in a collapsed position within the bag member when covering the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface; andthe bag member generally configured to carry the at least one pair of skis with a first portion of the at least one pair of skis within the collapsible sleeve when extended from the bag member, a second portion of the at least one pair of skis within the bag member, and a third portion of the at least one pair of skis extending beyond the upper end of the bag member.

2. The backpack of claim 1, further comprising a magnetic fastening mechanism that releasably connects the releasable flap to the bottom surface.

3. The backpack of claim 2, further comprising: a zipper mechanism at the bottom surface, the zipper mechanism configured to securely connect the releasable flap to the bottom surface to prevent quick release of the releasable flap.

4. The backpack of claim 1, further comprising a fastening mechanism attached to the upper end of the bag member, the fastening mechanism configured to secure the at least one pair of skis within the bag member.

5. The backpack of claim 1, wherein the collapsible sleeve includes a closed end that prevents passage of the at least one pair of skis beyond a length that the collapsible sleeve is able to extend away from the bag member.

6. The backpack of claim 5, wherein the collapsible sleeve includes a length adjustment mechanism that permits adjustment of the length that the collapsible sleeve is able to extend away from the bag member.

7. The backpack of claim 1, further comprising: a first footwear compartment positioned at a first opposing side of the two opposing sides; anda second footwear compartment positioned at a second opposing side of the two opposing sides.

8. The backpack of claim 7, wherein the bag member includes a rigid support structure with at least one removable rigid support member.

9. The backpack of claim 8, further comprising: a helmet strap storage compartment; anda helmet strap attached to the bag member at a location within the helmet strap storage compartment, the helmet strap configured to extend from helmet strap storage compartment to strap a helmet to the front surface of the bag member.

10. The backpack of claim 7, wherein the at least one shoulder strap is removably secured to the bag member.

11. A ski bag for transporting skis, the ski bag comprising: a backpack having a top portion and a bottom portion;at least one compartment for containing equipment;at least one shoulder strap for carrying the backpack;an internal sleeve extending from the top portion of the backpack to the bottom portion of the backpack, the internal sleeve sized for receiving a pair of skis including bindings, the internal sleeve defining a top opening at the top portion of the backpack;an external sleeve extendible from the bottom portion of the backpack and configured to form an extension of the internal sleeve;the internal sleeve and external sleeve forming a continuous sleeve for receiving the pair of skis when passing from the top portion of the backpack into the internal sleeve and continuing into the external sleeve such that the continuous sleeve contains a lengthwise portion of the pair of skis, with a remaining lengthwise portion of the pair of skis protruding from the top portion of the backpack; andthe bottom portion of the backpack including a releasable flap for containing the external sleeve within the backpack in a collapsed configuration, the releasable flap configured to release in response to a contact force.

12. The ski bag of claim 11, further comprising a fastening mechanism attached to the top portion of the backpack, the fastening mechanism configured to secure the pair of skis within the internal sleeve such that when the pair of skis is secured within the backpack and the backpack is positioned vertically and resting on ski ends in the external sleeve, the backpack remains in an elevated position.

13. The ski bag of claim 11, further comprising: a magnetic fastening mechanism that releasably connects the releasable flap to the bottom portion and;a zipper mechanism that securely attaches the releasable flap to the bottom portion to prevent quick release of the releasable flap.

14. A bag for skiing equipment, the bag comprising: a shell including a back surface, a front surface, two opposing sides, a bottom surface, at least one shoulder strap, and an upper portion;the upper portion of the shell defining an upper opening sized to receive a ski and accompanying bindings in a lengthwise direction;the shell defining a bottom opening in the bottom surface, the defined bottom opening sized to permit passage of a lengthwise portion of the ski and accompanying bindings, the bottom opening including a mechanism that prevents full passage of the accompanying bindings; andthe bag generally configured to carry the ski with a first portion of the ski passed through the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface and extending away from the shell, a second portion of the ski that includes at least a portion of the accompanying bindings contained within the shell, and a third portion of the ski protruding from the upper end and extending away from the shell.

15. The bag of claim 14, further comprising: a first footwear compartment positioned at a first opposing side of the two opposing sides;a second footwear compartment positioned at a second opposing side of the two opposing sides; andwherein the first and second footwear compartments are angled relative to the front and back surfaces such that the first and second footwear compartments are closer to each other at the bottom surface of the shell than at the upper portion such that a distance between the first and second footwear compartments at the bottom surface is sized to restrict the defined bottom opening to prevent full passage of the accompanying bindings of the ski.

16. The bag of claim 14, further comprising a releasable flap attached to the bottom surface of the bag member, the releasable flap configured to cover the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag member and configured to be released from covering the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag member.

17. The bag of claim 14, wherein the shell includes a rigid support structure with at least one removable rigid support member.

18. The bag of claim 14, further comprising a fastening mechanism attached to the upper portion of the shell configured to secure the ski within the shell.

19. A bag for snowboarding equipment, the bag comprising: a bag member including a back surface, a front surface, two opposing sides, a bottom surface, at least one shoulder strap, and the bag member having an upper end;the upper end of the bag member defining an upper opening sized to receive a snowboard and accompanying bindings in a lengthwise direction;the bag member defining a bottom opening at the bottom surface, the defined bottom opening sized to permit passage of a lengthwise portion of the snowboard without permitting full passage of the accompanying bindings; andthe bag generally configured to carry the snowboard with a first portion of the snowboard passed through the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface and extending away from the bag member, a second portion of the snowboard contained within the bag member, the second portion including at least a portion of the accompanying bindings, and a third portion of the snowboard protruding from the upper end and extending away from the bag member.

20. The bag of claim 19, further comprising a collapsible sleeve attached to the bag member, the collapsible sleeve configured to extend from the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag member such that the collapsible sleeve extends away from the bag member, the collapsible sleeve sized to receive a lengthwise portion of the snowboard when the collapsible sleeve is extended away from the bag member.

21. The bag of claim 20, further comprising a releasable flap attached to the bottom surface of the bag member, the releasable flap configured to cover the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag member and configured to be released from covering the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface of the bag member, the releasable flap configured to contain the collapsible sleeve in a collapsed position within the bag member when covering the defined bottom opening in the bottom surface, the bag member generally configured to carry the snowboard with a first portion of the snowboard within the collapsible sleeve when extended from the bag member, a second portion of the snowboard within the bag member, and a third portion of the snowboard extending beyond the upper end of the bag member.

22. The backpack of claim 21, further comprising: a magnetic fastening mechanism that releasably connects the releasable flap to the bottom surface; anda fastening mechanism attached to the upper end of the bag member for securing the snowboard within the bag member.

23. An improved backpack for carrying a pair of footwear equipment, the backpack having a front and a back, left and right side compartments, of predetermined size, each side compartment having side walls, a bottom, a back wall and a front wall, the left and right side compartments being angularly joined together at the front of the backpack to form, with the back, a generally isosceles triangularly shaped interior compartment between the side compartments; and wherein a portion of the front of the backpack is defined by the front walls of the side compartments;wherein the improvement comprises: a top opening at the top of the interior compartment, the top opening sized to receive a pair of skis and accompanying bindings in a lengthwise direction; anda bottom opening at the bottom of the interior compartment, the bottom opening configured to permit passage of a lengthwise portion of the pair of skis and accompanying bindings without permitting full passage of the accompanying bindings;

24. The improved backpack of claim 23, further comprising a releasable flap, the releasable flap configured to cover the bottom opening at the bottom of the interior compartment and configured to be released from covering the bottom opening of the interior compartment.

25. The improved backpack of claim 24, further comprising: a collapsible sleeve attached to the improved backpack, the collapsible sleeve configured to extend from the bottom opening such that the collapsible sleeve extends away from the interior compartment, the collapsible sleeve sized to receive a lengthwise portion of the pair of skis when the collapsible sleeve is extended away from the interior compartment; anda fastening mechanism attached adjacent to the top opening for securing the pair of skis within the interior compartment.

26. An improved backpack for carrying a pair of footwear equipment, the backpack having a front and a back, left and right side compartments, of predetermined size, each side compartment having side walls, a bottom, a back wall and a front wall, the left and right side compartments being angularly joined together at the front of the backpack to form, with the back, a generally isosceles triangularly shaped interior compartment between the side compartments; and wherein a portion of the front of the backpack is defined by the front walls of the side compartments;wherein the improvement comprises: a top opening at the top of the interior compartment, the top opening sized to receive an article of length greater than the top-to-bottom dimensions of the side walls of the side compartments;a bottom opening at the bottom of the interior compartment, the bottom opening sized to permit passage of a lengthwise portion of the article of length greater than the top-to-bottom dimensions of the side walls of the side compartments; anda releasable flap, the releasable flap configured to cover the bottom opening at the bottom of the interior compartment and configured to be released from covering the bottom opening of the interior compartment.

27. The improved backpack of claim 26, further comprising: a collapsible sleeve attached to the improved backpack, the collapsible sleeve configured to extend from the bottom opening such that the collapsible sleeve extends away from the interior compartment, the collapsible sleeve sized to receive a lengthwise portion of the snowboard when the collapsible sleeve is extended away from the interior compartment; anda fastening mechanism attached adjacent to the top opening for securing the snowboard within the interior compartment.