Single Pull Transverse Strap Shoe Closure System

Abstract

A system for securing shoes to the feet using a single pull shoe closure arrangement. Each of the various embodiments utilizes a “transverse strap” arrangement that extends between the lateral and medial sides of the shoe across the tongue or top portion of the shoe. The transverse strap is a single, generally flat, strap extending from one side of the shoe across the top portion of the shoe to the opposite side where it joins with a single pull sub-system. The preferred embodiments use a single pull system oriented longitudinally along one side of the shoe to draws upon one end of the transverse strap configuration to affect the shoe closure. Alternate embodiments pull a shorter draw strap laterally to a point of securement on the side of the shoe below the tongue area without the need for a longitudinal pull motion.

We claim: 
     
         1 . A system for securing shoes to the feet using a single pull shoe closure arrangement, the system comprising:
 a transverse strap extending between the lateral and medial sides of the shoe across the tongue or top portion of the shoe, the transverse strap comprising a single, generally flat, strap extending from a fixed attachment on a first side of the shoe across the top portion of the shoe to the second side of the shoe; and   a single pull sub-system oriented longitudinally along the second side of the shoe, a first end of the single pull sub-system connected to the transverse strap and the second end of the single pull sub-system movably connected to a heel portion of the shoe;   wherein pulling on the second end of the single pull sub-system draws upon the transverse strap to affect the shoe closure.