WO2017031022A1

WO2017031022A1 - Recreational shoe spike system and kit

Info

Publication number: WO2017031022A1
Application number: PCT/US2016/046955
Authority: WO
Inventors: Scott M. LIVINGSTON; Arthur ROTI
Original assignee: Horst Engineering & Manufacturing Co
Current assignee: Horst Engineering & Manufacturing Co
Priority date: 2015-08-14
Filing date: 2016-08-14
Publication date: 2017-02-23
Anticipated expiration: 2018-02-14

Abstract

The present invention is a system for a recreational shoe utilized in bicycling and running having a stud with an upper portion in a predetermined shape for traction in varying environmental conditions, a lower portion with a generally cylindrical configuration with screw threads on an exterior surface thereof, and intermediate portion adjacent the upper and lower portions configured with a washer on a lower surface adjacent the lower portion and a side surface configured with a fastener connection adapted to mate with a corresponding shape of a tool to fasten and remove the stud from the recreational shoe from at least one threaded hole of the recreational shoe for receiving the screw threads of the lower portion of the stud. The fastener of the intermediate portion can be rotated by the tool for coupling and uncoupling of the stud with respect to the recreational shoe. A kit for a recreational shoe utilized in bicycling and running has an enclosure, a tool and studs with the upper portion in numerous predetermined shapes of varying dimensions for adapting to environmental conditions as desired.

Description

RECREATIONAL SHOE SPIKE SYSTEM AND KIT

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/205,453, filed August 14, 2015 entitled "Recreational Shoe Spike System and kit," which is incorporated in its entirety.

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to shoes used in racing events involving running and bicycling and, more particularly, to a kit, system and method for improving performance and traction in a single pair of cyclo-cross bicycle racing shoes under varying surfaces, terrain and changing environmental conditions.

Background of the Invention

[0002] Cyclo-cross bicycle racing consist of many laps of a short course (e.g. 2.5-3.5 km or 1.5-2 mile) with bicycling and running on various surfaces including pavement, mud, ice, wooded trails, grass, steep hills, rocks, fallen trees, and other obstacles. Any time there is a non-ridable obstacle the cyclo-cross participant is requiring to quickly dismount the bicycle, carry the bicycle so as to navigate the obstruction and then remount to continue racing. Cyclo- cross racing can have varying bicycle distances, surfaces and running conditions that vary depending on the ground conditions and changing weather. Moreover, cyclo-cross participants must carry their bicycle to overcome barriers or slopes too steep to climb in the saddle as well as struggle up a muddy slope with bicycles on their shoulders. Under racing conditions, a major contributor of competitiveness and loss of time of the cyclo-cross participant is due to costly slips when carrying the bicycle to overcome barriers or when racing up slopes. As the cyclo- cross participant in the bicycle segment of the cyclo-cross race dismounts and carries the bike on various surfaces (e.g., pavement, wooded trails, grass, steep hills and obstacles) the shoe must adapt to varying conditions in order to assist the racer.

[0003] Conventional bicycle shoes including racing and mountain bike shoes are reasonably sufficient for the bicycling requirement in cyclo-cross competition; however, these conventional bicycle shoes are insufficient to support the performance required when cyclo-cross participants carry their bicycle, overcome barriers, climb steep slopes, and race on the varying surfaces, terrain and changing environmental conditions und including wet grass, slippery rocks, and muddy conditions. Road racing bicycle shoes have disadvantages as the smooth bottom or racing bicycle shoes is impractical by reason of a low degree of traction on the running aspect of a cyclo-cross course, e.g. a segment of the cyclo-cross race that requires dismounting and running a course with hills, rocks, mud, ice, and other earth conditions. While mountain bike shoes may be used, conventional mountain bike shoes have hard rubber protrusions or spikes (e.g. knobs, lugs or projections longitudinal along the base and edge, some transverse at the toe) that provide improved traction compared to the racing bike shoe yet are of a design that also has disadvantages in the traction required to compete and prevent slipping and falling on the course in all earth conditions as well as durability to last and not wear out over a cyclo-cross racing season.

[0004] Additionally, while toe projections available on some mountain bike shoes may aid in normal is conditions in other adverse underfoot conditions these projections are not presently adaptable to varying conditions that may occur on a particular course or that exists race day such as, for example, ice, mud, rocks, and steep slopes because a small lug of the toe projection is molded into conventional mountain bike shoes may to help with traction in good conditions these projections have been shown to become useless under icy, mud and/or other adverse conditions. Under these circumstances, a racer may adapt to bring, and may need to purchase, more than one pair of shoes which is a disadvantage from a cost, transportability and interruption during racing to change shoes, if necessary .

[0005] Consequently, there is a long felt need for a recreational cyclo-cross bicycle shoe system and kit for cyclo-cross participants to compete in a race so as to carry their bicycle, overcome barriers, climb steep slopes, and race under varying conditions including wet grass, slippery rocks, and muddy conditions that overcomes the disadvantages of conventional recreational mountain and/or cyclocross shoes.

Summary of the Invention

[0006] It is an object of the present invention to provide a kit, system and method for cyclo- cross participants to carry their bicycle, overcome barriers, climb steep slopes, and race under varying conditions including wet grass, slippery rocks, and muddy conditions without the need to change recreational mountain and/or cyclocross shoes.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to the following drawings. In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various figures unless otherwise specified.

[0008] For a better understanding of the present invention, reference will be made to the following Description of the Embodiments, which is to be read in association with the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, show certain aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein and, together with the description, help explain some of the principles associated with the disclosed implementations, wherein:

[0009] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of the recreational shoe stud of the kit, system, and method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0010] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the recreational shoe stud of the kit, system, and method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0011] FIG. 3 is a side view of the long-length recreational shoe stud;

[0012] FIG. 4 is a side view of the mid-length recreational shoe stud;

[0013] FIG. 5 is a side view of the medium-length recreational shoe stud;

[0014] FIG. 6 is a side view of the short-length recreational shoe stud;

[0015] FIG. 7 is a side view of the long-length ice & snow recreational shoe stud;

[0016] FIG. 8 is a side view of the short-length ice & snow recreational shoe stud;

[0017] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the varying stud lengths and a sole of a recreational shoe stud of the kit; and

[0018] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the varying stud lengths and a sole of a recreational shoe stud of the kit, system, and method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention

Description of the Embodiments

[0019] Non-limiting embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like elements throughout. While the invention has been described in detail with respect to the preferred embodiments thereof, it will be appreciated that upon reading and understanding of the foregoing, certain variations to the preferred embodiments will become apparent, which variations are nonetheless within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0020] The terms "a" or "an", as used herein, are defined as one or as more than one. The term "plurality", as used herein, is defined as two or as more than two. 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 "coupled", as used herein, is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically.

[0021] Reference throughout this document to "some embodiments", "one embodiment", "certain embodiments", and "an embodiment" or similar terms means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearances of such phrases or in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments without limitation.

[0022] The term "or" as used herein is to be interpreted as an inclusive or meaning any one or any combination. Therefore, "A, B or C" means any of the following: "A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; A, B and C". An exception to this definition will occur only when a combination of elements, functions, steps or acts are in some way inherently mutually exclusive.

[0023] The drawings featured in the figures are provided for the purposes of illustrating some embodiments of the present invention, and are not to be considered as limitation thereto. Term "means" preceding a present participle of an operation indicates a desired function for which there is one or more embodiments, i.e., one or more methods, devices, or apparatuses for achieving the desired function and that one skilled in the art could select from these or their equivalent in view of the disclosure herein and use of the term "means" is not intended to be limiting.

[0024] As used herein the term "recreational shoe" shall mean a shoe for a person for use in bicycling and running such as, for example, a mountain bike, an off-road, and/or a cyclo-cross shoe.

[0025] As used herein the term "studs" "spikes" or "Horst Spikes" refers to pointed protrusions usually made of metal, ceramic or plastic that are screwed into the bottom of shoes to increase traction and minimize the likelihood of slipping. Suitable metals include the group of steel alloys, stainless steel, hardened steel, titanium and alloys of titanium and other metals having qualities of durability, strength and environmental factors such as, for example, resisting rust.

[0026] As used herein the term "tool" "removal tool" refers to a mechanical device utilized to fasten the studs, spikes or horst spikes into the bottom of shoes.

[0027] As is illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 10, a recreational shoe stud system and kit is generally designated by element 100. The recreational shoe stud system and kit 100 is useful for a recreational shoe 102 having a receptacle 104 and the sole portion 106 of the recreational shoe 102 for inserting one more studs 110. The recreational shoe 102 is generally described in an embodiment of a mountain bike and/or cyclo-cross shoe where the one or more studs 110 function to provide extra traction and, in the bicycling and running segments during a cyclo- cross competition, so as to avoid costly slips and falls by the person and/or competitor which would reduce the competitors ability to perform and achieved their desired results for the competition racing course. It should be appreciated that the system and kit described herein is not limited solely to such specific embodiment as one skilled in the art would understand that application may be found and made in other recreational sports and endeavors for the components of the recreational shoe stud system and kit 100.

[0028] Referring to FIGS. 1-8 and 9-10, the recreational shoe stud system and kit 100 comprises one or more stud 110 configured to be fastened to a recreational shoe(s) 102 that accept toe studs 110. The stud 110 may be formed in a variety of predetermined designs 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, and 170 as shown in FIGS. 1-8. As illustrated in FIGS. 3-8, the predetermined designs 120 include an elongated frusto-conical shape 130, a mid-length frusto-conical shape 140, a smaller body frusto-conical shape 150, short-length frusto-conical shape 160, an ice-spike shape 170 and a smaller body ice-spike shape 180. The recreational shoe stud system and kit 100 may be formed in a kit 200 comprising one or more studs 110 selected from the group of predetermined designs 120 of one or more of the elongated frusto-conical shape 130, the mid-length frusto- conical shape 140, the smaller body frusto-conical shape 150, the short-length frusto-conical shape 160, the ice-spike shape 170 and the smaller person ice-spike shape 180 and a stud tool 190. In an alternative embodiment, the kit 200 may additionally include a chart 200 correlating brace course in environmental conditions.

[0029] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 8, the recreational shoe stud system 100 comprises a stud 110 configured with a post 111 on a lower portion 112 that may be formed with threads 111a adapted to be received in a threaded aperture 104 of the sole portion 106 of the recreational shoe 102, as is shown in FIG. 9. Each stud 110 generally consists of a uniform body having the lower portion 111, an intermediate portion 113, and an upper portion 114. The intermediate portion 113 is configured with a lower surface 115 and a side surface 116. The intermediate portion 113 comprises a washer 117 established on the lower surface 115 and a fastener 118 established on the side surface 116. The washer 117 is adapted to form a supportive interface and a stop between the stud 110 and the sole portion 106 of the recreational shoe 102 as the stud 110 is torqued in the threaded aperture 104 by the tool or stud wench 190. Consequently, the fastener 118 is adapted to mate and connect with a corresponding shape of the tool 190 to fasten and remove the stud 110 from the recreational shoe 102, whereby the recreational shoe 102 includes at least one threaded aperture 104 adapted to cooperatively receive the threads 11 la formed on the post 111, for example, being rotated by the tool 190 operably connected to screw threads 11 la to the recreational shoe 102 providing coupling and uncoupling of the stud 110 with respect to the recreational shoe 102. As illustrated in FIGS. 3-8, the upper portion 114 begins after the side surface 116 and fastener 118 so as to provide for the traction portion 119 of the varying predetermined design 120. As detailed herein, the predetermined designs 120 advantageously include an elongated frusto-conical shape 130, a mid-length frusto-conical shape 140, a smaller body frusto-conical shape 150, short-length frusto-conical shape 160, an ice-spike shape 170 and a smaller body ice-spike shape 180 so as to adapt to environmental and race course conditions.

[0030] Accordingly, the recreational shoe stud kit 200 and system 100 configures the stud 110 to withstand the rigors of the most challenging terrain as the stud 110 may be formed from corrosion resistant, Suitable metals include the group of steel alloys, stainless steel, hardened steel, titanium and alloys of titanium and other metals having qualities of durability, strength and environmental factors such as, for example, resisting rust.. The recreational shoe stud system 100 and kit 200 may be formed in a modular, easy to install by the person and/or competitor in the field as the design includes a washer 112 on a lower surface 114 to enhance stud 110 stiffness, and reduce wear and tear on shoes 102. The stud 110 may be formed and configured in a variety of predetermined designs 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, and 170 with rolled 10-32 U F-2A threads that are compatible with most popular cyclocross, mountain bike, and off-road shoes 102 that accept toe studs.

[0031] Referring to FIGS. 1-8, the stud 110 may be formed from suitable materials such as, for example, corrosion resistant, high strength stainless steel. The stud 110 has a post 111 with the fastening portion 112, washer flange 114, fastener format 116, and environ-traction portion 119. The post 111 may be formed cylindrical and smooth so as to the fastened suitable fastener means to the cyclocross, mountain bike, and off-road shoes 102 that accept toe studs 110. For example, the post 111 may be configured with the fastening portion 112 formed as a thread by suitable manufacturing threading processes such as, for example, cutting, grinding and/or thread rolling that provides a superior finish to improve assembly between external and internal threads and reduces wear between mating components thereby extending their life.

[0032] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the stud wrench or tool 190 is configured with a socket adapted to mate and connect with the corresponding shape of the fastener 118. The tool 190 may be formed from a generally cylindrical rod forming an elongated bar with a bend 191 at a distal portion to form a handle 192 utilized to torque the fastener 118 in the operation of coupling and uncoupling of the stud 110 with respect to the recreational shoe 102, the tool 190 may have a socket fastener portion adjacent the bend 192 so as to utilize the handle 192 with increased force when torqueing the stud 110. The tool further may have a socket fastener portion 194 adjacent and end of the handle 192 so as to utilize the tool 190 to spin quickly the studs 110 and 2 the threaded aperture 104 of the sole portion 106 of the shoe advantageously allowing a quick change during the cyclo-cross competition. The tool 190 can be configured as part of the recreational shoe stud kit 200 that may include a tube of compound 210 useful to improve locking of the threads 11 la on the lower portion 112 of the post 111 of the stud 110 in the threaded aperture 104 of the sole portion 106 of additional shoe 102.

[0033] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, the stud 110 may be formed in an elongated frusto-conical shape as the predetermined design 120 for the environ-traction portion 119that is formed in a generally cone shape, conical shape, a cone with the narrow end, or tip, removed, or frusto-conical configuration. The elongated shape frusto-conical shape of the predetermined design 130 may be formed in length a dimension of approximately 17.6 mm. The length of the elongated frusto- conical shape predetermined design 130 may be formed, for example, in a dimension of 17.6 mm. The length and predetermined design 120 may be utilized ideally for all conditions; however, it may be utilized by the rider best for deep sand, mud, and wet courses as set forth in a chart 200. The environ-traction portion 119 is configured for optimal usage when the ground is hard but preferably not frozen and conditions require the need for extra traction. In operation, the rider will select such a traction performance enhancer to upgrade the existing studs of a cyclocross and mountain bike shoe 102 so as to give extra traction and to reduce and avoid costly slips. Accordingly, the stud 110 predetermined design 120 of the recreational shoe stud system 100 and kit 200 may be used advantageously when the course is dry, hard packed, muddy, icy, or snowy to give the competitor and/or rider grip to stay safe and gain and edge in the competition.

[0034] Referring to FIG. 4, the stud 110 may be formed in a mid-length frusto-conical shape as the predetermined design 130 for the environ-traction portion 119 that is formed in a generally cone shape, conical shape, a cone with the narrow end, or tip, removed, or frusto-conical configuration. The mid-length frusto-conical shape of the predetermined design 130 may be formed in length a dimension of approximately 13.3 mm The length and predetermined design 130 may be utilized ideally for all conditions; however, it may be utilized by the rider best for great all-purpose stud for moderate sand and mud as set forth in a chart 200. The environ-traction portion 119 is configured for optimal usage best used when the ground is unfrozen, and the course does not require a substantial amount of traction. In operation, the rider will select such a traction performance enhancer of the predetermined design 130 to upgrade the existing studs of a cyclocross and mountain bike shoe 102 so as to give extra traction and to reduce and avoid costly slips. Accordingly, the stud 110 predetermined design 130 of the recreational shoe stud system 100 and kit 200may be used advantageously when the when the ground is unfrozen, and the course does not require a substantial amount of traction to give the competitor and/or rider grip to stay safe and gain and edge in the competition. [0035] Referring to FIG. 5, the stud 110 may be formed in a small body frusto-conical -length shape as the predetermined design 150 for the environ-traction portion 119 that is formed in a generally cone shape, conical shape, a cone with the narrow end, or tip, removed, or frusto- conical configuration. The small body frusto-conical shape of the predetermined design 150 may be formed in length a dimension of approximately 12.2 mm. The length of the predetermined design 140 may be formed, for example, in a dimension of 12.2 mm. The small body frusto- conical shape predetermined designs 150 is ideal for women, juniors, and riders with smaller feet. The length and small body frusto-conical shape predetermined design 150 is also a mid- general-purpose design, similar to the predetermined side 130 of FIG. 4, may be utilized for the smaller foot. The length and small body frusto-conical shape predetermined design 150 may be utilized ideally for all conditions; however, it may be utilized by the rider best for great all- purpose stud for moderate sand and mud as set forth in a chart 200. The environ-traction portion 119 is configured for optimal usage best used when the ground is unfrozen, and the course does not require a substantial amount of traction. In operation, the rider will select such a traction performance enhancer of the small body frusto-conical shape predetermined design 150 to upgrade the existing studs of a cyclocross and mountain bike shoe 102 so as to give extra traction and to reduce and avoid costly slips. Accordingly, the stud 110 small body frusto-conical shape predetermined design 150 for a rider with a smaller foot may be used advantageously when the when the ground is unfrozen, and the course does not require a substantial amount of traction to give the competitor and/or rider grip to stay safe and gain and edge in the competition.

[0036] Referring to FIG. 6, the stud 110 may be formed in a short-length shape as the predetermined designs 160 for the environ-traction portion 119 that is formed in a generally cone shape, conical shape, a cone with the narrow end, or tip, removed, or frusto-conical configuration. The short-length frusto-conical shape of the predetermined design 160 may be formed in length a dimension of approximately 11.0 mm. The length and short-length frusto- conical shape of the predetermined design 160 is also configured for dry and hard courses where extra grip is desired, for example, the length may be approximately 11 mm. The length and short- length frusto-conical shape of the predetermined design 160 may be utilized ideally for all conditions; however, it may be utilized by the rider when the ground is unfrozen and the course is dry with plenty of natural traction. The environ-traction portion 119 is configured for optimal usage on dry and unfrozen ground. In operation, the rider will select such a traction performance enhancer of the predetermined design 150 to upgrade the existing studs of a cyclocross and mountain bike shoe 102 so as to give extra traction and to reduce and avoid costly slips. Accordingly, the stud 110 short-length frusto-conical shape of the predetermined design 160 may be used advantageously on dry and unfrozen ground, and hard courses where extra grip is desired to give the competitor and/or rider grip to stay safe and gain an edge in the competition.

[0037] Referring to FIG. 7, the stud 110 may be formed in a conical ice-spike predetermined design 170 for the environ-traction portion 119. The conical ice-spike predetermined design 170 is formed in a generally cone shape, conical shape, a cone with the narrow end having a pointed end and/or sharpened tip. The conical ice-spike predetermined design 170 may be formed in length a dimension of approximately 17.6 mm The length of the ice-spike predetermined design 170 may be formed, for example, in a dimension of 17.6 mm. The length of the conical ice- spike predetermined design 170 is configured to have the pointed end so as to pierce ice, snow, and the frozen earth such as, for example, snow and ice on a cyclo-cross course. A rider will utilize the conical ice-spike predetermined design 170 when the ground is hard, frozen, and or slippery and requires a substantial need for traction in the most extreme conditions where extra grip is desired. The environ-traction portion 119 is configured for optimal usage for ice, snow, and mud. In operation, the rider will select such a traction performance enhancer of conical ice- spike predetermined design 170 to upgrade the existing studs of a cyclocross and mountain bike shoe 102 so as to give extra traction and to reduce and avoid costly slips. Accordingly, the stud 110 conical ice-spike predetermined design 170 may be used advantageously on for ice, snow, and mud where extra grip is desired to give the competitor and/or rider grip to stay safe and gain an edge in the competition.

[0038] Referring to FIG. 8, the stud 110 may be formed in a smaller body conical ice-spike predetermined design 170 for the environ-traction portion 119. The length of the smaller body conical ice-spike predetermined design 180 may be formed, for example, in a dimension of 13.3 mm. The a smaller body conical ice-spike predetermined design 180 is suitable for women, juniors, and riders with smaller feet and a smaller body. The length and a smaller body conical ice-spike predetermined design 180 is configured to have the modified point pierce frozen course. A rider will utilize a smaller body conical ice-spike predetermined design 180 when the ground is hard, frozen, and or slippery and requires a substantial need for traction in the most extreme conditions where extra grip is desired. The environ-traction portion 119 is configured for optimal usage for ice, snow, and mud. In operation, the rider will select such a traction performance enhancer of a smaller body conical ice-spike predetermined design 180 to upgrade the existing studs of a cyclocross and mountain bike shoe 102 so as to give extra traction and to reduce and avoid costly slips. Accordingly, the stud 110 a smaller body conical ice-spike predetermined design 180 may be used advantageously on for ice, snow, and mud where extra grip is desired to give the competitor and/or rider grip to stay safe and gain and edge in the competition.

[0039] Referring to FIGS. 9-10, an embodiment of the recreational shoe stud kit 200 is described where the system 100 may be configured with a variety of studs 110 to accommodate environmental and race conditions in sufficient quantities for each recreational shoe 102 in predetermined designs 120 (e.g. shapes 130, 140, 160, and 170), a stud wrench or tool 190, thread locking compound 210, and an enclosure 220. The kit 200 box 220 may be formed in a modular, user friendly package that includes a variety of studs 110 in predetermined designs 120 of one or more of the elongated frusto-conical shape 130, the mid-length frusto-conical shape 140, the smaller body frusto-conical shape 150, the short-length frusto-conical shape 160, the ice-spike shape 170 and the smaller person ice-spike shape 180 and a stud tool 190, so as to provide for ease to install by the rider in the field. The recreational shoe stud kit 200 and system 100 may be formed with a modular system that will fit most riders in four standard models. Additionally, the recreational shoe stud kit 200 and system 100 may be configured smaller for the smaller foot as the studs 110 function to balance the length of the stud 110 with foot rotation and are dimensioned appropriately smaller to enhance the person's performance cyclo-cross in the competition or otherwise on a cyclo-cross course such as, for example, an overall size reduction proportional to the foot. The recreational shoe stud kit 200 and system 100 advantageously provides a range of kits 180, set forth below, so as to provide the cyclo-cross participant with multiple options and the flexibility to adapt easily to the environmental conditions and racecourse layout, for example, surfaces, hills, and other features.

[0040] Horst Spikes Kit

[0041] Includes Short 4-pack, Medium 4-pack, Long 4-pack. Kit (Short 4-pack, Medium 4-pack, Long 4-pack) bags. The Kit includes all three of the most popular lengths. The Kit gives the rider the freedom to customize the racing shoes for conditions varying from dry and hard courses, to deep mud, sand, and wet courses.

[0042] Horst Spikes Kit; All-Conditions

[0043] Includes Short 4-pack, Medium 4-pack, Long 4-pack, Ice & Snow 4-pack.

[0044] The All-Conditions Kit includes all three of the most popular lengths plus Ice & Snow for a complete offering. The All-Conditions Kit gives the rider the freedom to customize the rider's shoes for conditions varying from dry and hard courses, to deep mud, sand, wet, icy, and snowy courses. [0045] Horst Spikes Pro Kit

[0046] Includes Short 4-pack, Medium 4-pack, Long 4-pack, Kit Box, Stud Wrench, Thread Locking Compound.

[0047] The Pro Kit 200 may be configured to include studs 110 in three popular lengths (e.g. the predetermined designs 120 include an elongated frusto-conical shape 130, a mid-length frusto- conical shape 140, a smaller body frusto-conical shape 150, short-length frusto-conical shape 160, an ice-spike shape 170 and a smaller body ice-spike shape 180) plus the box 220, tool 190, and thread locking compound 210. The Pro Kit gives the participant the freedom to customize the recreational shoes 102 for conditions varying from dry and hard courses, to deep mud, sand, and wet courses.

[0048] Horst Spikes Pro Kit; All Conditions

[0049] The kit 200 may be configured to include studs 110 of the predetermined designs 120 in a Short 4-pack, Medium 4-pack, Long 4-pack, Ice & Snow 4-pack include an elongated frusto- conical shape 130, a mid-length frusto-conical shape 140, a smaller body frusto-conical shape 150, short-length frusto-conical shape 160, an ice-spike shape 170 and a smaller body ice-spike shape 180), the box 220, tool 190, and thread locking compound 210

[0050] The Pro Kit: All-Conditions includes all three of the most popular lengths plus Ice & Snow, the Kit Box, Stud Wrench, and Thread Locking Compound; for a complete offering. The Pro Kit: All-Conditions gives the rider the freedom to customize the riders shoes for conditions varying from dry and hard courses, to deep mud, sand, wet, icy, and snowy courses.

[0051] The tool 190 may be formed with a ratchet and configured with a handle and socket so as to tighten and loosen the threads in the field, for example, as a 10 mm socket. The angled bend 191 further defines wrench stud wrench 190 is ideal for quick stud changes on the fly such as between races or to quickly change studs at a moment's notice when conditions change. The stud wrench 190 has clearance for all lengths and fits between the lugs of the cyclocross shoes 102.

[0052] Thread Locking Compound

Medium strength thread locking compound 210 (e.g. Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242 from Loctite Adhesives, part number Loctite 0.2 11. oz. Threadlocker Blue 242-209728) may be provided in the kit 200 to help prevent loosing and/or the loss of the durable studs 110.

[0053] Kit Box

[0054] The box 220 may be provided in the kit 200 as ideal way to store and transport the studs 110 sufficient for a pair of recreational shoes 102 in the various predetermined designs 120 (e.g. one or more of the shapes 130, 140, 150, 160, 170 and 180). The box 220 has compartments that can be can be changed in a manner that is not limited by any time, place, manner, or means of adjustment with enough space for up to six sets, plus room for a stud wrench 190, and thread locking compound (not shown).

[0055] As an article of manufacture, the studs 110 of varying lengths in conformity with, depending on, consistent with, and according to a system of the present invention can be used alone in one size or in combination with various sizes and purposes. For example, when used alone in one size the user selects the size and dimension according to the racing conditions, e.g. the long-length Stud for sandy conditions. When used in combination, the user selects the size and dimension depending on the expected racing conditions, for example, a mid-length stud 110 along with a mid-length ice & snow spike, whereby the racer can begin a race that has relatively favorable conditions having the mid-length stud installed in the inner designated hole on the shoe and a mid-length ice & snow spike installed on the outer designated hole on the shoe for expected conditions of freezing.

1. In operation, in order to install a particular stud and/or spike of the predetermined

design 120 (e.g. one or more of the shapes 130, 140, 150, 160, 170 and 180) on a recreational shoe 102 for bicycling and running, the cyclo-cross participant will take stud 110,and begin to screw clockwise into designated threaded hole 104 on the sole 106 of the shoe 102;

2. Using the 10 millimeter wrench 190 to fully tighten the stud 110 into place where the washer 117 tightens in aperture 106 against the sole 104 of the shoe 102.

3. Repeat steps 1-2 for installation of a second stud 110 on one shoe 102 (e.g. left or right shoe).

4. Once steps 1-3 are completed, the shoe 102 is ready for use by the participant, repeat for other shoe 102.

[0056] In order to remove a particular stud on a on a recreational shoe for bicycling and running, and install another desired stud, the cyclo-cross participant will:

5. Use a 10 millimeter stud wrench 190 on designated area on stud 110 (e.g. turn

counterclockwise).

6. Once unscrewed follow steps 1-2, to install alternative stud 110 of a predetermined design 120 (stud and/or spike).

7. Once complete follow steps 1-2 to remove and replace second stud 110 of a

predetermined design 120 (stud and/or spike) with alternative stud 110. [0057] While certain configurations of structures have been illustrated for the purposes of presenting the basic structures of the present invention, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other variations are possible which would still fall within the scope of the appended claims. Additional advantages and modifications will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described herein. Accordingly, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

What is claimed is: 1. A system for a recreational shoe used in bicycling and running, comprising:

a stud comprising

an upper portion in a predetermined design with a shape functioning for traction in varying environmental conditions,

a lower portion having a generally cylindrical configuration with screw threads on an exterior surface of the lower portion, and

intermediate portion adjacent the upper and lower portion, said intermediate portion configured with a washer on a lower surface adjacent the lower portion of said stud and a side surface configured with a fastener adapted to mate with a corresponding shape of a tool to fasten and remove said stud from the recreational shoe,

whereby the recreational shoe includes at least one threaded aperture adapted to cooperatively receive said screw threads of said lower portion for being rotated by said tool so as to operably connect said screw threads to the recreational shoe providing coupling and uncoupling of said stud with respect to the recreational shoe.

2. The system according to claim 1 , wherein said predetermined shape of said upper portion is configured in a generally cone shaped configuration.

3. The system according to claim 1 , wherein said predetermined shape being configured in an elongated frusto-conical shape of said upper portion.

4.. The system according to claim 1 , wherein said predetermined shape being configured in a mid-length frusto-conical shape of said upper portion.

5. The system according to claim 1, predetermined design being configured in a small body frusto-conical shape of said upper portion.

6. The system according to claim 1, being configured in a short-length frusto-conical shape of said upper portion.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein said predetermined design being configured in a conical ice-spike shape of said upper portion.

8. The system according to claim 1, wherein said predetermined design being configured in a smaller body conical ice-spike shape of said upper portion.

9. The system according to claim 1 , wherein said tool comprising an elongated a handle with an angle bend at a distal end and a wrench portion adjacent said distal portion thereof, said wrench portion being configured to operably connect to said fastener portion of said stud for coupling and uncoupling of the system with respect to the recreational shoe.

10. The system according to claim 1 , wherein said system comprises a thread compound for application on said screw threads of said lower portion to increase the operable connection of said screw threads to the recreational shoe providing coupling and uncoupling of the system by said tool with respect to the recreational shoe.

11. An article of manufacture for recreational shoes for bicycling and running, comprising: a stud comprising

an upper portion in a predetermined shape functioning for traction in varying environmental conditions,

a lower portion having a generally cylindrical configuration with screw threads on its exterior surface, and

intermediate portion adjacent said upper and lower portions, said intermediate portion configured with a washer on a lower surface adjacent the lower portion of said stud and a side surface configured with a fastener connection adapted to mate with a corresponding shape of a tool to fasten and remove said stud from the recreational shoe, whereby said screw threads of said lower portion of said article is configured to be rotated by said tool so as to operably connect the screw threads and washer of said stud to the recreational shoe to provide coupling and uncoupling of the stud with respect to the recreational shoe.

12. The article according to claim 1 1, wherein said predetermined shape of said upper portion is configured in a generally cone shaped configuration.

13. The article according to claim 11, wherein said predetermined shape being configured in an elongated frusto-conical shape of said upper portion.

14. The article according to claim 11 , wherein said predetermined shape being configured in a mid-length frusto-conical shape of said upper portion.

15. The article according to claim 11, predetermined design being configured in a small body frusto-conical shape of said upper portion.

16. The article according to claim 11, being configured in a short-length frusto-conical shape of said upper portion.

17. The article according to claim 11, wherein said predetermined design being configured in a conical ice-spike shape of said upper portion.

18. The article according to claim 11, wherein said predetermined design being configured in a smaller body conical ice-spike shape of said upper portion.

19. The article of manufacture according to claim 11, wherein said tool comprising an elongated a handle with an angle bend at a distal end and a wrench portion adjacent said distal portion thereof, said wrench portion being configured to operably connect to said fastener portion of said stud for coupling and uncoupling of the system with respect to a said recreational shoe.

20. A kit for a running and bicycling shoe in race competition, comprising: a stud comprising

intermediate portion adjacent the upper and lower portion, said intermediate portion configured with a washer on a lower surface adjacent the lower portion of said stud and a side surface configured with a fastener;

a tool adapted to mate with a corresponding shape of a tool to fasten and remove said stud from the recreational shoe, whereby the recreational shoe includes at least one threaded aperture adapted to cooperatively receive said screw threads of said lower portion for being rotated by said tool so as to operably connect said screw threads to the recreational shoe providing coupling and uncoupling of said stud with respect to the recreational shoe; and

a container for containing a variety of said studs in various predetermined designs and in a number sufficient to provide recreational shoes with said studs under different environmental condition.