SOCK WITH PADDING

Abstract

The present invention introduces a specialized sock designed to address multiple foot-related issues, including friction blisters, bunions, top-of-foot pain, pinky toe rubbing, and arch discomfort. The sock incorporates strategically placed, multi-layered foam padding in various shapes and sizes to offer targeted relief and protection. The padding is sewn into key areas such as the back of the heel, sides of the foot, top of the foot, and the arch, providing comprehensive comfort and shielding against abrasions and skin damage. Constructed from a blend of moisture-wicking and breathable materials, the sock ensures a dry and cool foot environment. The design is machine washable and includes padding that remains stable during physical activities, offering a durable and effective solution for foot discomfort.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates in general to socks, but more particularly to socks with padding.

2. Description of Related Art

Foot blisters are a common and painful condition characterized by fluid accumulation between layers of skin, primarily caused by friction. These skin irritations are frequently experienced in the heel area and are prevalent among individuals who engage in physical activities such as hiking, running, and various sports. Ill-fitting footwear exacerbates the issue, leading to increased friction and, consequently, blister formation.

In addition to blisters, chafing or rubbing of the skin is another concern. This issue is also aggravated by poorly fitted shoes and can lead to discomfort and potential skin damage.

Socks serve multiple functions, including temperature regulation, moisture absorption, and providing a layer of comfort between the foot and the shoe. Despite these benefits, traditional socks often fall short in preventing skin irritations like blisters and chafing, particularly in high-friction areas such as the heels.

Footwear designed for specific activities, such as athletic shoes, cleats, and boots, often intensify the problem. The sturdy construction of these shoes, combined with dynamic and rapid movements in sports, leads to increased friction and pressure on the foot. This is especially true in the area around the protruding Achilles tendon and heels. Moreover, these types of footwear can exacerbate other foot issues such as bunions, top-of-foot pain, arch pain, and pinky toe rubbing against the shoe, resulting in premature foot fatigue, abrasions, and skin damage.

Therefore, there exists a significant unaddressed need for an effective way to mitigate these common foot issues, particularly for individuals who are active or wear specialized footwear.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The following presents a simplified summary of some embodiments of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of the invention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the invention. It is not intended to identify key/critical elements of the invention or to delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some embodiments of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

In one aspect of the invention, a sock with foam-sponge padding is provided, comprising a heel portion; a top portion; a bottom portion; a toe portion; side portions; an arch portion; and, a multi-layered foam padding element sewn into the back of the heel portion on the inside surface of the sock, wherein the multi-layered foam padding element provides relief of blisters by reducing the friction between a user's heel and the user's shoe.

In one embodiment, the multi-layered foam padding element comprises an inner foam material layer constructed from a foam-sponge material; and, an outer soft layer constructed from a breathable mesh fabric, wherein the outer soft layer is sewn such that it sits directly against the back of the heel of the wearer on the inside surface of the sock. In another embodiment, the foam-sponge material comprises polyurethane foam. In one embodiment, the multi-layered foam padding element includes a shape selected from a shape group consisting of: a rectangular shape, a square shape, a diamond shape, a heart shape, a polygon shape, a curved shape, and a circular shape.

In another aspect of the invention, a sock with foam-sponge padding is provided, comprising a heel portion; a top portion; a bottom portion; a toe portion; side portions, an arch portion; and, a multi-layered foam padding element sewn into an inside surface of the sock in at least one portion of: the heel portion, the top portion, the bottom portion, the toe portion, the side portion, and the arch portion, wherein the wherein the multi-layered foam padding element provides a cushion, relief, and prevention of foot pain and skin conditions developed from friction.

In one embodiment, the multi-layered foam padding element is in the top portion of the sock to prevent friction between the top of the user's foot and the tongue or laces of the user's shoe. In one embodiment, the multi-layered foam padding element is in the toe portion to prevent friction between at least one toe of the user's foot and the toe portion of the user's shoe. In another embodiment, the multi-layered foam padding element is sewn into the bottom portion of the sock to prevent friction between a bottom portion of the user's foot and the arch portion of the user's shoe. In one embodiment, the at least one toe is the pinky toe, and the multi-layered foam padding element is configured to provide relief from bunionettes. In another embodiment, a pair of multi-layered foam padding elements are sewn into a pair of side portions of the sock to prevent friction between at the side portions of the user's foot and the side portions of the user's shoe and to provide relief for bunions. In one embodiment, the multi-layered foam padding element is sewn into the arch portion of the sock to prevent friction between the arch of the user's foot and the arch portion of the user's shoe.

In yet another aspect of the invention, a method for manufacturing a sock with foam-sponge padding is provided, the method comprising steps (a) providing a fabric; (b) cutting the fabric into the shape of a sock comprising a heel portion, a top portion, a bottom portion, a toe portion, side portions, and an arch portion; (c) sewing a multi-layered foam padding element into the back of the heel portion on the inside surface of the sock, wherein the multi-layered foam padding element provides relief of blisters by reducing the friction between a user's heel and the user's shoe; and, (d) sewing the cut fabric to form the sock.

In one embodiment, the fabric is a blend comprising combed cotton spinning yarn, spandex, nylon, and elastic yarn. In another embodiment, the blend essentially consists of 73% combed cotton spinning yarn, 11% spandex, 11%, nylon, and 5% elastic yarn. In one embodiment, a further step is provided, wherein an additional multi-layered foam padding element is sewn into at least one additional portion of the bottom portion, the top portion, the toe portion, the side portion, and the arch portion.

The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the more pertinent and important features of the present disclosure so that the detailed description of the invention that follows may be better understood and so that the present contribution to the art can be more fully appreciated. Additional features of the invention will be described hereinafter which form the subject of the claims of the invention. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and the disclosed specific methods and structures may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present disclosure. It should be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent structures do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent when the following detailed description is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a rear perspective view of sock with foam padding according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates a rear view of the sock with foam padding according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 illustrates a rear view of an alternate sock with foam padding according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 illustrates a rear view of a second alternate sock with foam padding according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 illustrates a rear view of a third alternate sock with foam padding according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 illustrates the cross-section view of the sock with foam padding according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 illustrates a partial top view of a sock with foam padding with bunion support according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 illustrates a partial top view of a sock with foam padding with pinky toe support according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 illustrates a side view of a sock with foam padding with arch support according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 illustrates a top perspective view of a sock with foam padding with top of foot support according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 illustrates a bottom view of a sock with foam padding at a bottom heel position according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 illustrates a partial bottom view of a pair sock with foam, each sock with foam padding at the ball of the foot according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 illustrates a rear perspective view of a sock with foam padding having extended length according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14 illustrates a rear perspective view of a sock with a removable foam padding element according to an embodiment of the present invention; and,

FIG. 15 illustrates a rear perspective view of a sock with a removable foam padding element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention and sets forth the best modes contemplated by the inventor of carrying out his invention. Various modifications, however, will remain readily apparent to those skilled in the art, since the general principles of the present invention have been defined herein to specifically provide a sock with padding.

It is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. The terms “a” or “an,” as used herein, are defined as to mean “at least one.” The term “plurality,” as used herein, is defined as two or more. The term “another,” as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms “including” and/or “having,” as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The term “providing” is defined herein in its broadest sense, e.g., bringing/coming into physical existence, making available, and/or supplying to someone or something, in whole or in multiple parts at once or over a period of time. These terms generally refer to a range of numbers that one of skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited values (i.e., having the same function or result). In many instances these terms may include numbers that are rounded to the nearest significant figure. The term “foam-sponge” refers to a porous, resilient material characterized by its cushioning properties. It is engineered to have specific density, porosity, and compressibility that make it suitable for use as padding in the sock. The foam-sponge is designed to offer optimal comfort and protection against friction and pressure points when sewn into the sock.

The present invention offers a revolutionary approach to foot comfort and health by introducing a sock with strategically placed foam padding. This innovative design addresses multiple issues commonly faced by individuals, such as friction blisters, bunions, top-of-foot pain, pinky toe rubbing, and arch discomfort. The sock is engineered to provide all-encompassing comfort and protection, making it ideal for everyday wear, athletic activities, and specialized footwear. The use of high-quality, breathable, and moisture-wicking materials further enhances the user experience by keeping the feet cool and dry.

According to some embodiments, disclosed herein is a sock comprising at least one padding disposed on at least one portion of the sock.

The at least one padding may be configured to exhibit a cushioning effect greater than that provided by other portions of the sock. The cushioning effect may reduce an extent of physical abrasion and/or irritation caused from indirect contact with an external object, such as a shoe worn by a user, on a skin of the user while wearing the sock.

The at least one portion of the sock may include, but is not limited to, at least one of a heel portion, a toe portion and a ball portion.

In some embodiments, the at least one padding may include a foam sponge.

In some embodiments, the at least one padding may include one or more of a memory foam, an EVA foam, a gel insert, a silicone padding, and an air-filled chamber.

Further, in some embodiments, the at least one padding may include one or more of a gel-infused fabric, an elastane, a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), a latex foam, and a polyurethane (PU) foam.

In some embodiments, the at least one padding may include a combination of blended fibers, microfiber, bamboo fiber, and specialized foams like Poron®.

In some embodiments, the at least one padding may include a medicinal substance such as, but not limited to, an antimicrobial agent, an antifungal agent, a skin-soothing compound, a wound-healing compound and a thermal agent. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the at least one padding may alleviate an existing skin condition of the user while wearing the sock and optionally a shoe.

In some embodiments, the at least one padding may include a pouch comprising an opening and a plurality of inserts. Accordingly, the at least one padding may be customizable according to a need and/or preference of a user. Further, in some embodiments, at least one of the plurality of inserts may include the medicinal substance.

In some embodiments, the at least one padding may include at least one protrusion configured to provide acupressure wherein the at least one protrusion is disposed on a bottom portion of the sock corresponding to at least one acupressure point on a sole of the user's foot corresponding to at least one ailment associated with the user. In some embodiments, the at least one ailment may be associated with the feet of the user. In some other embodiments, the at least one ailment may be associated with other bodily parts of the user.

In some embodiments, the at least one padding may include an interior surface configured to contact a skin of the user when wearing the sock and an exterior surface configured to contact an interior of a shoe when the user wears the shoe. Further, the interior surface may include an anti-skid material configured to maintain a relative position of the at least one padding on a corresponding designated area of the user's foot. Examples of the anti-skid material may include, but are not limited to, anti-skid stripes made of rubber and/or silicone, a nano-coating, water based adhesive dots, a Thermal Plastic Rubber (TPR) coating, a grip-enhancing pattern, a textured fabric, a silicone gripper and a rubberized pad and/or dot pattern. Further, the exterior surface may include a low friction material, such as, but not limited to, Nylon, polyester, spandex, microfiber, silk, satin, neoprene, bamboo fabric, Teflon coated fabric, and Gore-tex. Accordingly, the at least one padding may facilitate easy wearing and/or removal of the shoe while also ensuring that the padding remains proximal to the designated area in order to protect and/or provide comfort to the designated area.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of sock with foam padding 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring now to FIG. 1, the sock 100 is illustrated. In one embodiment, the sock 100 comprises a typical sock appearance and shape configured to be worn on the foot of a user. The sock 100 may be defined by a heel portion 101, top portion 102, toe portion 103, side portions 104, arch portion 105, and bottom of the foot portions 106a-b, including the bottom of the heel 106a, and ball portion 106b. In one embodiment, the sock 100 is constructed from a moisture-wicking, breathable, anti-sweat, and antimicrobial fabric. In one embodiment, the fabric is a unique cotton blend that includes a mix of cotton combed spinning yarn, spandex, nylon, elastic, polyamide, and polyurethane.

In some embodiments, the sock 100 comprises foam padding 107 strategically sewn into the back of the heel portion. This padding is specifically engineered to mitigate the formation of friction blisters, particularly during physical activities or when wearing specialized footwear. The foam padding 107 is multi-layered, offering additional protection against abrasions and skin damage. In one embodiment, the foam padding forms an inner layer of the sock, and for illustrative purposes in the drawings, the foam padding is visible.

Referring to FIGS. 2-5, the foam padding 107 can take various shapes, sizes, and designs, including but not limited to rectangular, square, diamond, heart, curved shapes, circular shapes, polygons, and other custom shapes. The critical aspect is that the shape sufficiently covers the heel area to reduce friction between the user's foot and the shoe. In one embodiment, the foam padding has dimensions that are configured to have a length, a width, and a height that are specifically designed for optimal comfort. Further, the location of the foam padding 107 may vary depending on the desired areas that the user needs protection and padding, including, but not limited to, the top portion 102, the toe portion 103, the side portions 104, the arch portion 105, and the bottom of the foot portions 106a-b, including the bottom of the heel 106a, and ball portion 106b.

Best seen in FIG. 6, the foam padding 107 can be defined as an inner foam material 108 and a soft outer layer 109 encompassing the foam material In one embodiment, the foam material 108 is constructed from a marine sponge, such as spongia. In other embodiments, the foam material 108 may be constructed from synthetic sponge material. In yet other embodiments, the foam material 108 is polyurethane foam, polyester foam, or poly laminate foam. In other embodiments, the foam material 108 is a gel. In some embodiments, the soft outer layer 109 is constructed of a breathable mesh fabric made of polyamide, spandex, and cotton. In other embodiments, the soft outer layer 109 is constructed from polyamide fiber. This outer layer 109 is an inner layer of material that sits directly against the back of the heel of the wearer. For clarity this is shown as element 110 in FIG. 6, and the outer sock material shown as 111 which is configured to abut the user's shoe (not illustrated).

In alternative embodiments, the sock 100 may comprise sewn-in foam padding into areas other than, or in addition to, the heel padding 107. These areas are commonly affected by foot issues. This comprehensive padding design aims to provide an all-encompassing comfort and protection solution. Specifically, FIG. 7 illustrates foam padding 107a located at the sides of the foot 104, an area typically affected by bunions. These foam padding elements offer significant relief to the user. FIG. 8 shows foam padding 107b situated near the outside of pinky toe in the toe portion 103, providing relief from bunionettes and preventing the pinky toe from rubbing against the shoe, thereby avoiding blisters and other discomforts. In FIG. 9, foam padding 107c is strategically positioned along the arch of the foot 105 to alleviate arch pain and offer support for flat feet, as well as to prevent blisters. FIG. 10 depicts foam padding 107d near the top of the foot 102, designed to prevent blisters and pain caused by friction or rubbing from the tongue or laces of the shoe. This padding also offers relief from conditions like gout. FIG. 11 illustrates foam padding 107e on bottom of the heel. Finally, FIG. 12 illustrates foam padding 107f on the balls of the foot. The foam padding in these alternative locations are constructed from materials similar to those used in the heel padding and are sewn in such a way that the outer layer encompassing the foam material sits directly against the targeted areas of the user's foot.

Although the specific materials and compositions may vary, the following are few examples of sock 100 material construction. It should be noted that these are non-limiting examples. In one embodiment, the sock material is a cotton blend. In one embodiment, the cotton blend comprises cotton combed spinning yarn (73%), spandex (11%), nylon (11%), and elastic yarn (5%). In some embodiments, the soft outer layer 108 is constructed of a breathable mesh fabric made of polyamide (83.3%), spandex (14.2%), and cotton (2.5%). In other embodiments, the soft outer layer is entirely polyamide fiber. It should be understood that compositions of the aforementioned materials may vary.

The manufacturing process of the sock is designed to ensure the highest quality and durability while maintaining comfort and functionality. The sock 100 is assembled using advanced knitting techniques that seamlessly integrate the foam padding into the fabric. In the initial phase, the specialized fabric cotton blend is knitted into the basic sock shape, which includes a variety of tube lengths depending on the size and type of the sock, such a crew, quarter length, ankle, or similar as is well known in the art. Following this, the foam padding 107 is precisely cut into the desired shapes and sizes as per the design specifications and desired locations. In a non-limited example, the foam padding 107 configured for the heel portion is approximately 6.5 cm in height, and 8 cm in width. It should be understood that the size may vary as needed. For example, if desired the foam padding may be extended in length, such as the foam padding 107g illustrated in FIG. 13, shown in heel portion 101. In this embodiment, the foam padding 107g is approximately 8 cm in height and 8 cm in width. The size and shape may vary depending on the desired location, and shape necessary to cover the targeted area.

Next, these foam padding pieces are then sewn into the sock using high-tensile strength thread, ensuring that they remain securely in place even under strenuous conditions. The sewing process is carried out to ensure that the foam padding aligns perfectly with the targeted areas on the foot, such as the heel, sides, toe, arch, bottom of the foot locations, etc. After the sewing is complete, the sock undergoes a series of quality control tests, including stretch tests, moisture-wicking tests, and abrasion tests, to confirm its durability and effectiveness. The final product is then packaged and prepared for distribution.

The innovative design and advanced features of this sock 100 make it highly versatile, opening up a wide range of commercial applications. It is particularly well-suited for the athletic and sports industry, where foot comfort and protection are paramount. The sock could also find applications in the healthcare sector, offering relief to patients suffering from foot-related conditions like bunions, blisters, and arch pain. Additionally, its moisture-wicking and antimicrobial properties make it ideal for military and outdoor use, where long periods of physical activity and harsh conditions are common. The sock's all-encompassing comfort and protection features could also make it a sought-after product in the footwear and apparel markets, appealing to consumers looking for everyday comfort. Its unique blend of materials and strategic padding could even make it a candidate for specialized footwear in industries that require prolonged standing or walking, such as nursing, retail, and manufacturing.

Referring now to FIGS. 14-15, a removable padding element is illustrated. In some embodiments, the padding element 207 may be removable from the sock, wherein the padding element may be configurable in a number of locations on the sock. The number of locations on the sock may be any location previously discussed, including but not limited to a heel portion, a bottom portion, a ball portion, a top portion, a toe portion, a side portion, an arch portion, or other portions that are desirable to a user. At one or more of these locations a removable attachment mechanism is provided. In some embodiments, the removable attachment mechanism may be a pouch 200 (FIG. 14). In other embodiments, the removable attachment mechanism may be a removable fastening mechanism such as loop and hook fasteners 201 (FIG. 15) or similar. It should be understood that other fastening mechanisms may be provided, and the heel portion illustrated in the drawings is shown as an exemplary location configured for a removable padding element 207.

Although the invention has been described in considerable detail in language specific to structural features, it is to be understood that the invention defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features described. Rather, the specific features are disclosed as exemplary preferred forms of implementing the claimed invention. Stated otherwise, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein, as well as the abstract, are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. Therefore, while exemplary illustrative embodiments of the invention have been described, numerous variations and alternative embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. Such variations and alternative embodiments are contemplated, and can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

It should further be noted that throughout the entire disclosure, the labels such as left, right, front, back, top, bottom, forward, reverse, clockwise, counterclockwise, up, down, or other similar terms such as upper, lower, aft, fore, vertical, horizontal, oblique, proximal, distal, parallel, perpendicular, transverse, longitudinal, etc. have been used for convenience purposes only and are not intended to imply any particular fixed direction or orientation. Instead, they are used to reflect relative locations and/or directions/orientations between various portions of an object.

In addition, references to “first,” “second,” “third,” and etc. members throughout the disclosure (and in particular, claims) are not used to show a serial or numerical limitation but instead are used to distinguish or identify the various members of the group.

Claims

1. A sock with padding comprising: a heel portion;a top portion;a bottom portion;a toe portion;side portions;an arch portion; and,a multi-layered foam padding element sewn into a back of the heel portion on an inside surface of the sock.

2. The sock of claim 1, wherein the multi-layered foam padding element comprises: an inner foam material layer constructed from a foam-sponge material; and,an outer soft layer constructed from a breathable mesh fabric, wherein the outer soft layer is sewn such that it sits directly against the back of the heel of the wearer on the inside surface of the sock.

3. The sock of claim 2, wherein the foam-sponge material comprises polyurethane foam.

4. The sock of claim 1, wherein the multi-layered foam padding element includes a shape selected from a shape group consisting of: a rectangular shape, a square shape, a diamond shape, a heart shape, a polygon shape, a curved shape, and a circular shape.

5. A sock with padding comprising: a heel portion;a top portion;a bottom portion;a toe portion;side portions;an arch portion; and,a multi-layered foam padding element comprised in an inside surface of the sock in at least one portion of: the heel portion, the top portion, the bottom portion, the toe portion, the side portion, and the arch portion, wherein the multi-layered foam padding element provides a cushion, relief, and prevention of foot pain and skin conditions developed from friction.

6. The sock of claim 5, wherein the multi-layered foam padding element is in the top portion of the sock to prevent friction between the top of the user's foot and the tongue or laces of the user's shoe.

7. The sock of claim 5, wherein the multi-layered foam padding element is in the toe portion to prevent friction between at least one toe of the user's foot and a toe region of the user's shoe.

8. The sock of claim 7, wherein the at least one toe is a pinky toe.

9. The sock of claim 5, wherein a pair of multi-layered foam padding elements are sewn into a pair of side portions of the sock to prevent friction between a side portion of the user's foot and a side region of the user's shoe.

10. The sock of claim 5, wherein the multi-layered foam padding element is sewn into the arch portion of the sock to prevent friction between an arch area of the user's foot and an arch region of the user's shoe.

11. The sock of claim 5, wherein the multi-layered foam padding element is sewn into the bottom portion of the sock to prevent friction between a bottom area of the user's foot and an arch region of the user's shoe.

12. The sock of claim 5, wherein the multi-layered foam padding element comprises: an inner foam material layer constructed from a foam-sponge material; and, an outer soft layer constructed from a breathable mesh fabric, wherein the outer soft layer is sewn such that it sits directly against the back of the heel of the wearer on the inside surface of the sock.

13. The sock of claim 11, wherein the foam-sponge material comprises polyurethane foam.

14. A method for manufacturing a sock with padding, the method comprising steps: (a) cutting a fabric into a shape of a sock comprising a heel portion, a top portion, a bottom portion, a toe portion, side portions, and an arch portion;(c) sewing a multi-layered foam padding element into the back of the heel portion on the inside surface of the sock;(d) sewing a cut fabric to form the sock.

15. The sock of claim 14, wherein the multi-layered foam padding element comprises: an inner foam material layer constructed from a foam-sponge material; and,an outer soft layer constructed from a breathable mesh fabric, wherein the outer soft layer is sewn such that it sits directly against the back of the heel of the wearer on the inside surface of the sock when in use.

16. The sock of claim 15, wherein the foam-sponge material comprises polyurethane foam.

17. The sock of claim 15, wherein the fabric is a blend comprising combed cotton spinning yarn, spandex, nylon, and elastic yarn

18. The sock of claim 14, further comprising a step wherein an additional multi-layered foam padding element is sewn into at least one additional portion of the bottom portion, the top portion, the toe portion, the side portion, and the arch portion