INFIELD LEG GUARD

Abstract

Infield Leg Guards (ILGs) are defensive leg guards for softball and baseball infielders. ILGs are below-the-knee protection (worn in pairs) for the front-side of the legs, primarily the tibia bone.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] While the sports world has widely recognized the need for shin protection, perhaps the greatest need(s) exists for baseball and softball infielders. When batted, a baseball can leave the bat at a rate of 120 miles per hour (mph) or more. Similarly, softballs can leave the bat in excess of 130 mph. As a result, infield defensive players can sustain serious injury when impacted.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The purpose of ILGs are to reduce shin injuries sustained by the impact of a softball and/or baseball. ILGs are designed to attach/remove quickly and be worn only when a player is on defense. ILGs are lightweight and fasten firmly to the lower leg through adjustable straps and/or magnets, or simply held in place with socks. ILGs extend from (just above) the foot to (just below) the knee.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0003] FIG. 1 is a front view of the invention as it would be positioned for its intended protective use.

[0004] FIG. 2 is a side view of the invention as it is being positioned on the lower leg.

[0005] FIG. 3 is the same side view (FIG. 2) of the invention after it has been positioned on the lower leg.

[0006] FIG. 4 is a partial illustration of both the outside and inside of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] A defensive shin protector (1) for infield softball and baseball players, which is to be worn on the front of the lower leg (8), protecting the tibia bone.

[0008] The outer shield element (6) is manufactured to absorb the initial impact of the ball, while the inner padding (7) provides comfort to the user while also distributing the force of the impact, thus reducing the probability of injury therefrom.

[0009] Outer shield element (6) and inner padding (7) both contain spaces, or breaks, smaller than the size(s) for each respective ball, which allows the impact to be distributed more evenly and uses less overall material, thereby making the invention lighter than the same device without spaces or breaks.

[0010] Shin protector (1) may be held in position with knee-length socks between the knee (2) and ankle (4). Protection does not extend to the backside of the lower leg, or calf muscle (3).

Claims

1. Shin protectors for defensive softball and baseball players, specifically manufactured to absorb the impact of any size softball and/or baseball when batted.