Snowboard Chairlift Securing Device

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/650,938, which was filed on May 23, 2024, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The present invention relates generally to the field of snowboards. More specifically, the present invention relates to a snowboard chairlift securing device that enhances safety, balance, and comfort by securing the back foot with a flexible foot loop and a textured base platform for improved traction. The device features a multi-point mounting plate for customizable positioning, reducing fatigue and minimizing injury risk during chairlift rides and dismounts. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.

Snowboarders face unique challenges when exiting chairlifts due to the fundamental differences between snowboarding and skiing. Unlike skiers, who have both feet independently secured in their skis, snowboarders typically secure only their front foot to the board while keeping the back foot free during the lift ride. This arrangement makes it difficult to maintain balance and control when dismounting the chairlift. As the chairlift approaches the unloading area, snowboarders must swiftly navigate downhill slopes or make sharp turns with only one foot strapped in. This lack of stability increases the likelihood of falls, particularly when the terrain requires immediate maneuvering. The imbalance places significant strain on the front knee, making snowboarders susceptible to injuries such as sprains or ligament damage. Inexperienced snowboarders, in particular, struggle with this process, which can result in frequent accidents. Additionally, during the ride up the mountain, snowboarders must support the weight of the board using one leg, which can lead to discomfort, fatigue, and muscle strain. Over time, this physical strain diminishes performance and increases the risk of injury. The lack of a practical method to secure the back foot while riding the lift highlights a critical gap in snowboarding equipment. Addressing this issue would significantly improve both the safety and comfort of snowboarders, making chairlift rides and dismounts more manageable and less hazardous.

Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a snowboard chairlift securing device that allows snowboarders to maintain stability and control by securing their back foot to the board during lift rides and exits. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a snowboard chairlift securing device that reduces the strain and fatigue caused by holding the snowboard with only one leg while on the lift. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a snowboard chairlift securing device that minimizes the risk of knee injuries by providing greater balance and safety during chairlift dismounts.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a snowboard chairlift securing device. The device is comprised of a snowboard chairlift securing device designed to enhance safety, balance, and comfort for snowboarders during chairlift rides and dismounts. The device comprises a base platform and features at least one foot loop made from flexible materials like reinforced rubber or thermoplastic elastomer. The foot loop includes an adjustable strap for secure fitting and a padded lining for increased comfort. A textured surface with grooves and a raised toe grip on the base platform improves traction and prevents slippage. The device can be mounted in multiple locations on the snowboard using a multi-point mounting plate compatible with standard insert patterns, enabling customization based on user preference. The mounting options include direct integration with the rear binding or placement behind or in front of it. By securing the back foot, the device reduces fatigue, improves balance during lift rides, and minimizes the risk of knee and leg injuries during chairlift dismounts. Additionally, a method of using the device involves mounting it securely to the snowboard, positioning the back foot in the foot loop, and benefiting from increased stability during chairlift rides and exits.

In this manner, the snowboard chairlift securing device of the present invention accomplishes all the foregoing objectives and provides a secure and reliable device to keep the snowboarder's back foot engaged with the board. By allowing both feet to assist in stabilizing the snowboard during the lift ride, the device reduces muscle strain and discomfort. Additionally, the device enhances safety during dismounts by providing better control, helping snowboarders avoid awkward falls and potential injuries. The device offers a practical and efficient solution to a long-standing problem faced by snowboarders. By addressing the balance, fatigue, and safety concerns inherent in chairlift use, the device significantly improves the overall snowboarding experience.

The following presents a simplified summary to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a snowboard chairlift securing device. The invention is a snowboard attachment device designed to enhance safety and control for snowboarders during chairlift rides and dismounts. The device secures the back foot, improving balance, reducing fatigue, and lowering the risk of injury.

The device comprises a base platform providing a stable surface for the back foot. The platform is made from durable, high-impact thermoplastics like ABS or polycarbonate for resilience in cold conditions. At least one foot loop extends upward from the base platform, forming an open slipper-like structure. The foot loop, made of flexible, reinforced rubber or TPE, accommodates various boot sizes and may include an adjustable strap for a secure fit. A padded lining may be present to enhance comfort by reducing pressure points.

The top surface of the base platform features a textured surface designed for traction and snow removal. The texture may include raised nodules or grooves to improve grip and prevent slipping. A raised toe grip positioned at the front of the platform prevents forward boot movement during sharp turns and may be contoured to fit the front of the user's boot.

The device supports mounting in multiple snowboard locations through a multi-point mounting plate compatible with standard insert patterns (2×4 or 4×4). The mounting plate includes fastener openings for secure attachment using screws or bolts. The device may integrate with the rear binding or mount behind or in front of it to suit various riding styles.

The multi-location attachment system allows users to customize positioning for comfort and control. By securing both feet, the device increases stability during chairlift rides and exits, reducing falls and injury risks. The design alleviates front leg pressure during lift rides, enhancing overall safety.

A method of using the device involves aligning and securing the mounting plate to the desired location, placing the back foot into the foot loop, and adjusting the strap for a secure fit. The device enables snowboarders to hold the board with both feet during lift rides, improving balance and control during chairlift exits.

Accordingly, the snowboard chairlift securing device of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it provides a secure and reliable device to keep the snowboarder's back foot engaged with the board. By allowing both feet to assist in stabilizing the snowboard during the lift ride, the device reduces muscle strain and discomfort. Additionally, the device enhances safety during dismounts by providing better control, helping snowboarders avoid awkward falls and potential injuries. The device offers a practical and efficient solution to a long-standing problem faced by snowboarders. By addressing the balance, fatigue, and safety concerns inherent in chairlift use, the device significantly improves the overall snowboarding experience.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a snowboard chairlift securing device that allows snowboarders to maintain stability and control by securing their back foot to the board during lift rides and exits. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a snowboard chairlift securing device that reduces the strain and fatigue caused by holding the snowboard with only one leg while on the lift. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a snowboard chairlift securing device that minimizes the risk of knee injuries by providing greater balance and safety during chairlift dismounts.

The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of a snowboard chairlift securing device. The invention is a snowboard attachment device designed to improve safety and control for snowboarders during chairlift rides and dismounts. The device secures the back foot, enhancing balance, reducing fatigue, and lowering the risk of injury.

The device comprises a base platform that provides a stable surface for the back foot. The platform is constructed from durable, high-impact thermoplastics such as ABS or polycarbonate, ensuring resilience in cold conditions. Extending upward from the base platform is at least one foot loop, forming an open slipper-like structure. The foot loop, made of flexible, reinforced rubber or TPE, accommodates various boot sizes and may include an adjustable strap for a secure fit. A padded lining may also be included to enhance comfort by minimizing pressure points.

The top surface of the base platform features a textured design to provide traction and facilitate snow removal. This texture may consist of raised nodules or grooves to improve grip and prevent slipping. A raised toe grip at the front of the platform prevents the boot from sliding forward during sharp turns and may be contoured to fit the front of the user's boot.

The device supports mounting in multiple locations on the snowboard through a multi-point mounting plate compatible with standard insert patterns (2×4 or 4×4). The mounting plate includes fastener openings to ensure secure attachment with screws or bolts. The device can be integrated with the rear binding or mounted behind or in front of it, accommodating different riding styles and preferences.

The multi-location attachment system allows users to customize the positioning for optimal comfort and control. By securing both feet, the device increases stability during chairlift rides and dismounts, reducing the risk of falls and injury. The design also alleviates pressure on the front leg during lift rides, further enhancing safety.

The method of using the device involves aligning and securing the mounting plate to the desired location, placing the back foot into the foot loop, and adjusting the strap for a secure fit. This configuration allows snowboarders to stabilize the board with both feet during lift rides, improving balance and control during chairlift exits.

The snowboard chairlift securing device is particularly beneficial as it keeps the back foot securely engaged with the board. By enabling both feet to stabilize the snowboard during lift rides, the device reduces muscle strain and discomfort. Additionally, it enhances safety during dismounts by improving control, helping snowboarders avoid falls and potential injuries. This practical and efficient solution addresses balance, fatigue, and safety issues inherent in chairlift use, significantly improving the overall snowboarding experience.

Referring initially to the drawings,illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a snowboard chairlift securing deviceof the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The present invention pertains to a snowboard attachment devicedesigned to improve safety and control for snowboarders during chairlift rides and exits. The devicesecures the back foot of the snowboarder, enhancing balance, reducing fatigue, and minimizing the risk of injury during chairlift dismounts.

The snowboard chairlift securing devicefeatures several structural components. More specifically, the deviceis comprised of a base platformthat provides a stable surface for the back foot of the user during use. The base platformis preferably comprised of high-impact resistant thermoplastics such as Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) or polycarbonate, ensuring durability and resilience in cold weather conditions.

At least one foot loopextends upward from the base platformto form an open slipper-like structure. The foot loopis preferably made of flexible, reinforced rubber or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) to accommodate various boot sizes. To enhance functionality, the foot loopmay include an adjustable strap, such as a hook and loop or ratchet strap system, to customize the fit and securely hold a user's boot within the device. In one embodiment, a padded liningon a bottom surfaceof the foot loopprevents pressure points and increases comfort. In one embodiment, the loopis removably attached to the basevia at least one fastener, such as but not limited to a screw, that passes through at least one openingin the baseand at least one openingin the loop. One or both openings,may be threaded.

A top surfaceof the base platformis comprised of a textured surface. The textured surfaceis designed to provide maximum traction and facilitate snow removal from the boot. The surfacemay be comprised of a pattern of raised nodules and/or grooves that enhance grip and prevent the foot from slipping. In one embodiment, at least one raised toe gripis positioned at the front portion of the base platform. The toe gripserves to prevent the boot from sliding forward out of the device, particularly when executing sharp turns during chairlift exits. The toe gripmay be contoured to receive the front of a user's foot or boot.

The snowboard chairlift securing devicemay allow for secure mounting in multiple locations on the snowboard, accommodating different riding styles and user preferences. The deviceis comprised of a multi-point mounting plate, compatible with standard snowboard insert patterns such as 2×4 or 4×4. The mounting platefeatures fastener openingsfor screws or bolts to ensure secure attachment.

In one embodiment, the devicecan be attached directly to or within the rear binding of an existing snowboard by utilizing the existing mounting points or baseplate structure, offering seamless and tool-free integration. For riders who prefer other configurations, the devicecan be mounted behind the rear binding using the universal mounting plate, allowing a comfortable lift ride and exit without interfering with binding adjustments. Alternatively, the devicecan be installed in front of the rear binding for riders who favor a forward stance, providing additional leverage and control during chairlift dismounts.

This device offers snowboarders several key benefits. The multi-location attachment systemallows users to customize positioning based on their riding style, ensuring optimal comfort and control. By securing the board with both feet, snowboarders experience increased stability during chairlift rides and exits, reducing the likelihood of falls. The design also reduces discomfort by alleviating pressure on the front leg during prolonged lift rides. Overall, the snowboard chairlift securing deviceenhances safety by minimizing the risk of knee and leg injuries commonly associated with chairlift dismounts.

The present invention is also comprised of a method of usingthe snowboard chairlift securing device, as seen in. First, the snowboard chairlift securing deviceis provided, comprising a base platform, at least one foot loop, a textured surface, and a mounting plate[Step]. Then, the mounting plateis aligned with the desired mounting location on the snowboard, such as directly on the rear binding, behind the rear binding, or in front of the rear binding[Step]. Next, the snowboard chairlift securing deviceis secured to the snowboard by inserting screws or bolts through the fastener openingson the mounting plateand tightening them until the deviceis firmly attached [Step]. Once mounted, the user places the back foot into the foot loopand in one embodiment, adjusts the adjustable strapto ensure a secure fit around the boot [Step]. When seated on a chairlift, the user uses the deviceto hold the snowboard with both feet, thereby reducing fatigue and improving control. Finally, upon reaching the chairlift exit point, the user exits the lift with improved balance and control due to the secure positioning of the back foot in the device, minimizing the risk of falling or injury [Step].

Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “snowboard chairlift securing device” and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the snowboard chairlift securing deviceof the present invention.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the snowboard chairlift securing deviceof the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the snowboard chairlift securing deviceas shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the snowboard chairlift securing deviceare well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the snowboard chairlift securing deviceare important design parameters for user convenience, the snowboard chairlift securing devicemay be of any size, shape, and/or configuration that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.

Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.