ITBL20130002A1 - "SKI-MOUNTAIN SHOE" - Google Patents

Description

SKI-MOUNTAINEERING BOOTS

DESCRIPTION

Technical field

The present invention relates to a ski mountaineering boot according to the characteristics of the precharacterizing part of claim 1.

Definitions

In the present description and in the attached claims, the following terms must be understood according to the definitions given below.

The term ski-mountaineering refers to a discipline that is partly skiing and partly mountaineering which involves a first phase of march for the ascent of a snowy mountain and the subsequent descent through the use of skis coupled with specific boots which are equipped with a block on the ankle joint to obtain different functions during the walking and skiing phases.

The terms `` front '' and `` frontal '' referring to a boot must be understood as referring to a portion of the body of the boot that corresponds to the areas of the toe and the instep that is inserted into the boot by a user of the boot itself. Similarly, the terms `` rear '' and `` rear '' referring to a boot must be understood as referring to a portion of the body of the boot that corresponds to the areas of the calf or heel of the foot that are inserted into the boot by a user. of the boot itself or, in other equivalent terms, the terms `` rear '' and `` rear '' referring to a boot must be understood as referring to an area of the boot opposite to a front or `` frontal '' area according to a corresponding direction to the usual descent direction when skiing a skier. The term â € œlateralâ € referring to a boot must be understood as referring to a portion of the body of the boot that corresponds to a connection area between a front and a rear area and which develops surrounding the hips of the foot and leg. a user of the boot itself.

The term â € œsuperiorâ €, referring to the boot cuff means referring to the position of the cuff on the boot with respect to the ground.

Prior art

In the field of making ski boots, ski mountaineering boots are of particular importance, which differ from other types of boots as they must meet the specific needs of this sporting specialty. In particular, ski mountaineering boots must allow an effective locking of the leg of the user of the boot with respect to the foot of the user of the boot in a first mode of use of the boot corresponding to a skiing condition and must instead allow a high level of mobility and inclination of the leg with respect to the foot in a second mode of use of the boot corresponding to a condition of climbing or walking. Ski mountaineering boots normally include a plastic shell on which a shaped sole is obtained to facilitate walking on fresh snow. A cuff is hinged on the shell, hinging being obtained in correspondence with the ankle area of the user of the boot itself. Closing hooks distributed on the shell and on the cuff may possibly be present, through which it is possible to tighten the shell or the cuff in such a way as to best immobilize the leg of the user of the boot itself.

There are prior art solutions in which ski mountaineering boots are equipped with a locking device designed to rigidly lock the cuff to the shell, in such a way as to prevent any relative movement between the shell and the cuff of the boot or to unlock the shell and cuff leaving the free a certain reciprocal movement of one with respect to the other, in such a way as to be able, therefore, to selectively switch between the first mode of use of the boot corresponding to a skiing condition and the second mode of use of the boot corresponding to a condition of ascent or walk.

It should be borne in mind that the adjustment of the boots, in particular the passage between the first mode of use and the second mode of use of the boot, normally takes place in particularly difficult conditions from the point of view of balance and the snowy surface on which it is used. this operation must be carried out, sometimes it takes place in conditions that can also compromise the safety of the user of the boot.

Additionally, ski mountaineering boots can be devoid of rigid elements in the front part, for reasons of lightness. However, this exposes the front part of the leg to possible collisions with snowshoes or with stones or branches.

Alternatively, protective elements may be present which, however, can constitute an obstacle to free movement during the walking or ascent phases with skis on. Problems of the prior art

The solutions of the prior art for ski-mountaineering boots that provide for the use of closing hooks that must be operated by hand by the user present safety problems as the user can tighten the cuff by means of the hooks he must assume folded positions during which he could lose his balance, also in consideration of the fact that tightening often takes place in conditions of slope or snow that can be critical from the point of view of the safety of the skier.

The solutions of the prior art for ski-mountaineering boots which provide for the use of a locking lever which is hinged and automatically locks in correspondence with an interlocking element for a protrusion present on the lever itself provide for the lever to be hinged in so as to allow rotation of the lever on a plane which essentially corresponds to a plane of symmetry of the boot shell, except for the differences given by the different conformation of right and left foot or the conformation of the tightening hooks. The locking and unlocking movement of the lever therefore takes place in an essentially vertical direction. Although these solutions can partially solve the problem related to the locking phase, since they allow locking by means of a fairly simple movement that can be carried out without the help of the hands of the user of the boot, they are still subject to to some drawbacks including those inherent in the difficulty of unlocking the cuff once it has been locked on the shell with the lever system. In fact, the locking of the lever with the protrusion within a seat obtained on a coupling element is very strong and the release of the lever is difficult.

Further in the solutions of the prior art there are further elements that make walking or the movement that is carried out during the ascent difficult, such as for example the tongues or the frontal closures of the boot, which constitute an impediment to the free movement of the leg with respect to the foot. .

Purpose of the invention

The object of the present invention is to provide a ski-mountaineering boot which allows an easy and effective reciprocal locking of the shell and cuff of the boot and also an easy and quick mutual unlocking of the shell and cuff of the boot.

Concept of invention

The object is achieved with the features of the main claim. The sub-claims represent advantageous solutions.

Advantageous effects of the invention

The solution in accordance with the present invention, through the considerable creative contribution whose effect constitutes an immediate and not negligible technical progress, has various advantages.

An advantage particularly concerns the solution relating to the removable tongue which advantageously allows to obtain the maximum freedom in the walking or ascent phases with skis on and which therefore allows the maximum freedom of movement of the cuff with respect to the shell and the maximum freedom of movement. movement of the skier's leg.

The solution according to the present invention allows easy release of the cuff from the shell for the passage from a first mode of use of the boot corresponding to a skiing condition to a second mode of use of the boot corresponding to a condition of climbing or walking. Furthermore, the solution according to the present invention also allows easy locking of the cuff to the shell for the passage from the second mode of use of the boot to the first mode of use of the boot.

These aspects also have a positive influence on the safety of the boot user, which is advantageously increased thanks to the ease in carrying out these operations, which often take place in precarious conditions of balance.

Description of the drawings

An embodiment solution is described below with reference to the attached drawings to be considered as a non-limiting example of the present invention in which:

Fig. 1 represents a side view of the boot made in accordance with the present invention in a second configuration of use.

Fig. 2 represents a view from the rear side of the boot of Fig. 1.

Fig. 3 represents a side view of the boot of Fig. 1 in a configuration passing from the second configuration of use to the first configuration of use.

Fig. 4 represents an enlarged view of the detail indicated with â € œAâ € in Fig. 3.

Fig. 5 represents a side view of the boot of Fig. 1 in the first configuration of use.

Fig. 6 represents a view from the rear side of the boot of Fig. 5.

Fig. 7 represents an enlarged view of the detail indicated with â € œBâ € in Fig. 6.

Fig. 8 represents a plan view of the boot of Fig. 5.

Fig. 9 represents a side view of the boot of Fig. 1 in a different configuration of use.

Fig. 10 represents a perspective view of the boot of Fig. 1.

Fig. 11 shows a detail of the locking lever of the boot of Fig. 1. Fig. 12 shows a plan view of the tongue of the boot 9.

Fig. 13 represents a side view of the tongue of the boot 9.

Fig. 14 represents a view of the sole of the boot of Fig. 1.

Fig. 15 represents a view of a first insert of the sole of the boot of Fig. 1. Fig. 16 represents a view of a second insert of the sole of the boot of Fig. 1. Fig. 17 represents a view of a third insert of the sole of the boot of Fig. 1. Fig. 18 represents a view of a fourth insert of the sole of the boot of Fig. 1.

Description of the invention

Referring to the figures (Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 10, Fig. 11), the boot (1) made according to the the present invention is a ski mountaineering boot (1) which comprises (Fig. 1, Fig. 2) a shell (6) equipped with a sole (10) resting on the ground. The sole (10) is shaped with teeth that can be made of rigid material or rubber material or a combination of the same in order to facilitate walking on the snow. On the shell (6) there is an upper cuff (3) which is fixed to said shell (6) in correspondence (Fig. 1, Fig. 2) with a first hinge point (12) positioned on a first side (30 ) of the boot (1) and a second hinge point (32) positioned on a second side (31) of the boot (1). The first hinge point (12) and the second hinge point (32) allow (Fig. 3) an inclination of the upper cuff (3) with respect to the shell (6). The boot (1) is equipped with locking means (16, 17, 23) comprising a lever hinged in a third hinging point and rotating between at least:

- a first position (Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 10) in which the lever mechanically locks on a coupling element (23), this mechanical locking corresponding to a mechanical locking of the upper cuff (3) on the shell (6) preventing the inclination of the upper cuff (3) with respect to the shell (6);

- a second position (Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 11) in which the lever is in the unlocked condition with respect to the coupling element (23), the lever (17) releasing the mechanical locking allowing the inclination of the upper cuff (3) with respect to the shell (6).

In the solution according to the present invention, the lever is a lever (17) rotating on the third hinging point (18) according to (Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 7, Fig. 10, Fig. 11) a first axis ( 19) of rotation which lies on a first plane (36) which is essentially orthogonal with respect to a second plane (37) corresponding to the support plane of the boot (1) on the ground, this first plane (36) being a longitudinal plane of essential symmetry for the conformation of the upper cuff or the shell, except for differences in conformation due to the asymmetry of the user's right and left foot. In practice, on the boot and, correspondingly on the hull and upper cuff, it is possible to identify a plane of essential symmetry in the sense that the symmetry condition may be approximate in the sense that there may be differences between one side and the other of the plane of symmetry due to the incorrect symmetry of the foot.

The locking of the lever (17) on the coupling element (23) takes place following a rotation of the lever (17) around the first rotation axis (19) from the second position to the first position and following the insertion of an element of joint that is inserted by coupling with the coupling element (23), as will be clarified later in this description. The release of the lever (17) from the coupling element (23) takes place following a rotation of the lever (17) around the first rotation axis (19) from the first position to the second position with extraction of the interlocking element which comes off with respect to the coupling element (23) following the rotation of the lever. This is advantageous with respect to the solutions of the prior art with lever locking since the release of the levers of the prior art which are locked by rotation on a plane orthogonal to that indicated for the present invention, makes the unlocking operation difficult. lever.

Preferably, the locking means (16, 17, 23) are essentially positioned at the rear of the boot (1), `` rearward '' since it refers to an area of the boot which is an area corresponding to a rear attachment (9 ) for attachment to a ski, â € œrearsideâ € since it refers to an area of the boot which is an area opposite to a front area in correspondence with which a front attachment (8) is obtained for attachment to a ski according to the usual conventions adopted in the field of skiing.

The first axis (19) of rotation is inclined (Fig. 5) by a first angle (a) with respect to a second axis (38) which coincides with the axis according to which the upper quarter (3) is inclined with respect to the second plane (37), said second axis (38) being inclined with respect to the second plane (37) by a second angle (b). The first angle (a) is an angle comprised between 75 ° and 105 °, preferably between 85 ° and 95 °, even more preferably approximately 90 °. The 90 ° solution is advantageous if you want to facilitate the ease of release of the lever as the release takes place in this case in a tangential direction with respect to the rotation movement with respect to the third hinging point (18). The solutions with an angle other than 90 ° are advantageous in the case in which it is desired to favor the maintenance of the coupling condition since in this case the release takes place according to a direction that is not tangential with respect to the rotation movement with respect to the third hinging point. (18) and, therefore, encounters a certain difficulty due to greater interference than in the case of release in a tangential direction with respect to the rotation movement with respect to the third hinge point (18). The second angle (b) is an angle comprised between 45 ° and 130 °, preferably between 70 ° and 110 °, even more preferably approximately 75 °.

The lever (17) is advantageously rotating between at least three positions, of which:

- one is the first position previously described (Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 10) in which the lever is mechanically locked on the coupling element (23); - one is the second position previously described (Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 11) in which the lever is in the unlocked condition with respect to the coupling element (23) allowing the inclination of the upper cuff ( 3) with respect to the hull (6), in this second position, the lever (17) being in an essentially spaced and separate position with respect to the coupling element (23);

- a third position (Fig. 3, Fig. 4) in which the lever (17) is in the unlocked condition with respect to the coupling element (23), in this third position the lever (17) being in a resting on a sliding surface (24) obtained above the coupling element (23), above being referred to the ground in a condition in which the boot (1) rests on the ground by means of the sole (10). The sliding surface (24) is adapted to guide the lever (17) between the third position and the first position. The locking movement, advantageously, can be induced by the skier simply by bringing his own weight towards the back of the boot, without the help of the hands apart from their use to bring the lever to the third position, a movement that does not require efforts and that therefore it does not expose the skier to particular risks.

In the second position described (Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 11) the lever (17) is positioned according to a position that is rotated approximately 180 degrees with respect to the position of the lever (17) in correspondence with the first position ( Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 10).

The sliding surface (24) is inclined by a third angle (c) with respect to a fixing surface (25) of the coupling element (23) on the hull (6). Advantageously, this third angle (c) is greater than 90 °, the third angle (c) preferably comprised between 120 ° and 145 °. The fact of having an angle greater than 90 ° avoids the formation of a pocket within which the pin (21) can lock, facilitating, instead, the exit of the pin for its insertion into the corresponding locking seat.

The third hinge point (18) is obtained (Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 10, Fig. 11) on a base element (16) which is fixed on the upper cuff (3) behind the boot (1) in correspondence with an area of the calf of the user of the boot. The base element (16) comprises (Fig. 11) a first support surface (39) suitable to constitute a support surface for the lever (17) in the condition in which the lever (17) is in the second position . The first support surface (39) lies on a plane essentially parallel to the first floor (36). In the second position in which the lever (17) is resting on the first supporting surface (39), the lever (17) is positioned according to a trend in which a third axis (41) of longitudinal development of the lever ( 17) is essentially vertical with respect to the second plane (37), a tip end (42) of the lever (17) being positioned on the opposite side to the coupling element (23) with respect to the third hinge point (18 ). The coupling element (23) is preferably located in correspondence with an area of the heel (11) of the shell (6). Preferably the base element (16) comprises a second resting surface (40) adapted to constitute a resting surface for the lever (17) in the condition in which the lever (17) is in the first position. The second supporting surface (40) lies on a plane essentially parallel to the first plane (36). In the first position in which the lever (17) is resting on the second supporting surface (40), the lever (17) is positioned according to a trend in which a third axis (41) of longitudinal development of the lever ( 17) is essentially vertical with respect to the second plane (37), a tip end (42) of the lever (17) being positioned on the opposite side to the coupling element (23) with respect to the third hinge point (18 ).

Preferably, the first bearing surface (39) and the second bearing surface (40) are mutually aligned on the first plane (36).

In the preferred solution of the present invention, the first support surface (39) and the second support surface (40) allow the rotation of said lever (17) around the third hinging point (18) according to a direction of rotation which is different depending on whether the boot (1) is a boot suitable for fitting on the right foot of the user of the boot (1) or a boot suitable for fitting on the left foot of the user of the boot (1) :

- if the boot (1) is a boot suitable for fitting on the right foot of the user of the boot (1), then the first support surface (39) and the second support surface (40) allow rotation of the lever (17) according to a clockwise rotation direction from the second position to the first position with reference to a view of the boot (1) from a rear point of view (Fig. 2) and, vice versa, the first support surface ( 39) and the second support surface (40) allow rotation of the lever (17) in a counterclockwise direction of rotation from the first position to the second position with reference to a rear view of the boot (1);

- if the boot (1) is a boot suitable for fitting on the left foot of the user of the boot (1), then the first support surface (39) and the second support surface (40) allow rotation of the lever (17) in an anticlockwise direction of rotation from the second position to the first position with reference to a view of the boot (1) from a rear point of view and, vice versa, the first support surface (39) and the second support surface (40) allow a rotation of the lever (17) according to a direction of rotation in a clockwise direction from the first position to the second position with reference to a view of the boot (1) from a rear point of view.

The term `` rear '' refers to an area of the boot which is an area opposite to a front area in correspondence with which a front attachment (8) for hooking is obtained in a toe portion (7) to a ski according to the usual conventions adopted in the field of skiing. The solution described with reference to the right boot (that is, suitable to be worn on a right foot) and to the left boot (that is, suitable to be worn on a left foot) is advantageous since the movement of the lever occurs in both cases. towards the sides of the body, that is, the lever of the right boot carries out the rotation movement involving the side of the right boot facing the outside of the user and vice versa the lever of the left boot carries out the rotation movement involving the side of the left boot facing the outside of the user. In this way, the movement of each lever does not risk encountering obstacles due to the presence of another boot than the one on which the lever being moved is present.

The coupling element (23) comprises (Fig. 1, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 7, Fig. 9) a recess (22) having an essentially â € œCâ € conformation. The recess (22) is suitable for the insertion of a protrusion (21). The protrusion (21) is integral with one end of the lever (17) which is an opposite end of the lever with respect to the end on which the third hinging point is present (18). Preferably the protrusion (21) has an essentially cylindrical conformation.

Furthermore (Fig. 5, Fig. 9, Fig. 12, Fig. 13) the ski-mountaineering boot (1) according to the present invention can comprise a front tongue (4) for closing at least a front portion of the upper cuff ( 3) in correspondence with an area of the leg of the user of the boot (1). Advantageously, the tab (4) is selectively removable and applicable on the upper quarter (3). In this way, the advantages of the previously described solution relating to the locking of the shell and upper cuff are combined with the advantages of a removable tongue so that in the condition of use of the boot during walking or climbing, the user can configure the boot according to a configuration that allows maximum freedom of movement with the shell and upper cuff free from each other except in the first hinge point (12) and in the second hinge point (32) and with the upper cuff without the tongue. Preferably, the tab (4) and the upper quarter (3) comprise fastening means (26, 28) adapted to mutually couple for detachable fixing of the tongue (4) on the upper quarter (3). The fastening means (26, 28) preferably comprise a first pin (26), a second pin (27), a first hole (28), a second hole (29). The first pin (26) is integral with (Fig. 12, Fig. 13) a first wing (34) which departs laterally and essentially orthogonally with respect to a central body (33) of the tongue (4). The second pin (27) is integral with a second wing (35) which departs laterally and essentially orthogonally with respect to a central body (33) of the tongue (4). The tongue (4) is basically made up of the central body (33) and the lateral wings (34, 35) and has an essentially â € œCâ € plan conformation in which the first wing (34) and the second wing ( 35) essentially branch off parallel to each other from the central body (33). The first wing (34) is designed to be inserted into a first gap formed between an internal side of the upper cuff (3) and an external side of an internal shoe (2) inserted into the boot (1). The fixing of the tab (4) on the upper leg (3) takes place (Fig. 2, Fig. 5, Fig. 9) by inserting the first pin (26) into a first hole (28) obtained on the upper leg (3) according to a direction of insertion from the inside to the outside with respect to the volume delimited by the upper cuff (3). Similarly, the second wing (35) is able to fit into a second gap positioned on the opposite side with respect to the first gap, the second gap being formed between the inner side of the upper cuff (3) and the outer side of the inner boot (2) inserted inside the boot (1), the fastening of the tongue (4) on the upper cuff (3) by inserting the second pin (27) into a second hole (29) obtained on the upper cuff (3) according to an insertion direction from the Inside outwards with respect to the volume delimited by the upper cuff (3).

In a different embodiment (not shown), the first pin (26) is integral with the upper cuff (3) in correspondence with the first side (30) of the boot (1) and the second pin (27) is integral with the upper cuff (3) in correspondence with the second side (31) of the boot (1). In this case, the tab (4) will be provided with the first hole (28) and the second hole (29) in correspondence with opposite sides of the tab (4). The tab (4) will have the first hole (28) corresponding to the first wing (34) and the second hole (29) corresponding to the second wing (35). In this case the tab (4) is able to be fixed on the upper cuff (3) by means of a spreading of the wings (34, 35) by coupling the holes (28, 29) on the pins (26, 27) of the upper cuff .

Furthermore, the ski-mountaineering boot (1) according to the present invention comprises a cable (15) which is fixed at its first end in correspondence with the boot or upper cuff and exerts a traction action on the lever (17) according to a direction of traction opposite to the rotation of the lever (17). The cable also acts as a closing element and is preferably fixed in correspondence with a fixing hole on the lever (17). The cable is fixed at its opposite end on the upper cuff by means of a fastening element (13) which also allows easy release. For example, the fixing element (13) can be a hook into which a ring is inserted, obtained by tying one end of the cable itself. The closing cable (15) is fixed in correspondence with a fixing hole on the lever (17) and the hole is in a position along the longitudinal development of the lever which is a position between the third hinging point (18 ) and an opposite end of the lever with respect to the end on which the third hinge point is present (18). The cable (15) is wrapped at least partially around the upper cuff (3), so as to exert a clamping action of the upper cuff on the leg when the lever is in the locked position. The winding of the cable (15) around the upper cuff (3) is guided by at least one loop (14, 20) suitable for the insertion of the cable (15). Preferably there is a first loop (14) which guides the cable (15) from the fastening element (13) along the front portion of the upper leg for clamping the leg within the upper leg. From the first loop (14) the cable (15) is guided towards the lever by means of a second loop (20) which is preferably fixed on the base element (16). The cable (15) is fixed to the upper cuff (3) at one side of the upper cuff which is an opposite side with respect to the side of the base element (16) on which the first support surface is present ( 39). In this way the lever (17) exerts a traction action on the cable (15) which contributes to the tightening of the upper quarter. Furthermore, with this configuration, the cable (15) tends to keep the lever (17) in the locked position within the coupling element (23) preventing it from unlocking during skiing.

Alternatively or in combination, a magnetic coupling can also be provided by means of magnetic coupling means between the lever (17) and the base element (16) at least in a position selected from the first position previously described (Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 10) and the second position previously described (Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 11). In this way the magnetic coupling means will tend to keep the lever in the locked position both as regards the first position and the second position or in one of the two positions according to preferences.

In one embodiment, the boot does not provide for the presence of locking hooks of the shell or of the upper cuff but it will be evident that in different embodiments it will be possible to provide tightening hooks without departing from the scope of application of the present invention.

Furthermore, the boot according to the present invention provides a particularly light structure, suitable for carrying out ski-mountaineering sports activities. In particular, the boot is equipped with a soft type front cover (5) that lightens the structure and also allows greater freedom of movement, in combination with the effects obtained by means of the described locking device and the removable tongue.

Furthermore, the boot according to the present invention (Fig. 14, Fig. 15, Fig. 16, Fig. 17, Fig. 18) preferably comprises at least one insert (45, 46, 47, 48) in correspondence with the sole (10) equipped with blocks suitable for grip on a snowy surface during the walking phases. The insert can be selected from the group consisting of:

- a first insert (45) made of expanded rubber;

- a second insert (46) made of wear-resistant vulcanized rubber;

- a third insert (47) made of expanded rubber;

- a fourth insert (48) made of wear-resistant vulcanized rubber.

Advantageously, the use of different rubber materials is envisaged, which allow to obtain a greater grip on the snow or in any case on the surface during the walking phases. In particular, the use of vulcanized rubber inserts is envisaged, which is a wear-resistant vulcanized rubber that is positioned in the areas subject to greater stress when walking on the snow, while the use of foam rubber inserts is envisaged, which is lighter but more subject to wear, in areas subject to less stress when walking on the snow. In this way it is possible to keep a boot (1) light and resistant to wear, advantageously obtaining a high grip on the snow thanks to the blocks and a high friction coefficient thanks to the use of rubber materials on large surfaces of the sole ( 10).

In particular (Fig. 14, Fig. 15, Fig. 16) the second insert (46) is essentially â € œUâ € with two arms connected by a base of the â € œUâ € conformation. The second insert (46) is positioned on the sole (10) with the connecting base positioned in correspondence with the toe portion (7) of the boot (1) and with the arms of the â € œUâ € conformation which develop into a direction oriented towards the heel (43) of the boot (1). The first insert (45) fits within the space delimited by the arms of the essentially â € œUâ € conformation of the second insert (46).

In particular (Fig. 14, Fig. 17, Fig. 18) the fourth insert (48) is essentially â € œUâ € with two arms connected by a base of said â € œUâ € conformation and is positioned on the sole (10) with the connecting base positioned in correspondence with the heel (43) of the boot (1) and with the arms of the â € œUâ € conformation that develop in a direction oriented towards the toe portion (7) of the boot (1). The third insert (47) fits within the space delimited by the arms of the essentially â € œUâ € conformation of the fourth insert (48).

In this way the second insert (46) and the fourth insert (48) made of wear-resistant vulcanized rubber are at least partially enveloping the first insert (45) and the third insert (47) respectively, also constituting protections from the ™ wear of the same as the second insert (46) and the fourth insert (48) are positioned in correspondence with the areas most subject to stress.

Eventually, it will also be possible to use a further fifth rubber insert (not shown) also in correspondence with an intermediate portion (44) which is located between the toe portion (7) and the heel (43).

The description of the present invention has been made with reference to the attached figures in a preferred embodiment thereof, but it is evident that many possible alterations, modifications and variations will be immediately clear to those skilled in the art in the light of the previous description. Thus, it should be emphasized that the invention is not limited by the foregoing description, but includes all those alterations, modifications and variations in accordance with the attached claims.

Nomenclature used

With reference to the identification numbers shown in the attached figures, the following nomenclature was used:

1. Ski touring boot

2. Inner boot

3. Upper cuff

4. Tab

5. Front cover

6. Hull

7. Portion of tip

8. Front attachment

9. Rear attachment

10. Sole

11. Portion of the heel

12. First hinge point

13. Fastening element

14. First passerby

15. Cable

16. Basic element

17. Leverage

18. Third hinge point

19. First Axis

20. Second passer-by

21. Protrusion

22. Notch

23. Coupling element

24. Sliding surface

25. Mounting surface

26. First pin

27. Second pivot

28. First hole

29. Second forum

30. First side

31. Second side

32. Second hinge point 33. Body

34. First wing

35. Second wing

36. First floor

37. Second floor

38. Second axis

39. First support surface 40. Second support surface 41. Third axis

42. Tip

43. Heel

44. Intermediate portion

45. First insert

46. Second insert

47. Third insert

48. Fourth insert

to. First corner b. Second corner c. Third corner

Claims (23)

CLAIMS 1. Ski mountaineering boot (1), comprising a shell (6) equipped with a sole (10) resting on the ground, an upper cuff (3) being applied on said shell (6), the upper being referred to the position of said upper quarter on said boot with respect to the ground, said upper quarter (3) being able to be fixed to said shell (6) at a first hinge point (12) positioned on a first side (30) of said boot (1 ) and a second hinge point (32) positioned on a second side (31) of said boot (1), said first hinge point (12) and said second hinge point (32) allowing an inclination of said upper quarter ( 3) with respect to said shell (6), said boot (1) being equipped with locking means (16, 17, 23) comprising a lever hinged in a third hinging point and rotating between at least: - a first position in which said lever mechanically locks on a coupling element (23), said mechanical locking corresponding to a mechanical locking of said upper leg (3) on said shell (6) preventing said inclination of said upper leg (3) ) with respect to said hull (6); - a second position in which said lever is in an unlocked condition with respect to said coupling element (23), said lever (17) releasing said mechanical locking allowing said inclination of said upper quarter (3) with respect to said shell (6); characterized by the fact that said lever is a lever (17) rotating on said third hinging point (18) according to a first rotation axis (19) which lies on a first plane (36) which is an essentially orthogonal plane with respect to a second plane ( 37) corresponding to the plane of support of said boot (1) on the ground, said first plane (36) being a longitudinal plane of essential symmetry for the conformation of said upper cuff or of said shell, the locking of said lever (17) on said coupling element (23) taking place as a result of a rotation of said lever (17) around said first axis (19) of rotation from said second position to said first position and following the insertion of an interlocking element which slips by coupling with said coupling element (23), the release of said lever (17) from said coupling element (23) taking place following a rotation of said lever (17) around said first axis (19) of rotation from said first position to comp a second position with extraction of said interlocking element which is removed with respect to said coupling element (23) following said rotation of said lever. 2. Ski-mountaineering boot (1) according to claim 1 characterized in that said locking means (16, 17, 23) are positioned essentially behind said boot (1), â € œrearwardsâ € referring to an area of the boot which is an area in which a rear attachment (9) is obtained which is suitable for attachment to a ski, â € œbackwardsâ € since it refers to an area of the boot which is an area opposite to an area front in correspondence of which is obtained a front attachment (8) which is suitable for attachment to a ski according to the usual conventions adopted in the field of skiing. Ski touring boot (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 2, characterized in that said first axis (19) of rotation is inclined by a first angle (a) with respect to a second axis (38) which coincides with the axis according to which said upper quarter (3) is inclined with respect to said second plane ( 37), said second axis (38) being inclined with respect to said second plane (37) by a second angle (b), said first angle (a) being an angle preferably between 75 ° and 105 °, even more preferably between 85 ° and 95 °, the preferred value being approximately 90 °, said second angle (b) being an angle preferably between 45 ° and 130 °, even more preferably between 70 ° and 110 °, the preferred value being approximately 75 °. Ski touring boot (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 3 characterized in that said lever (17) is able to be rotating between at least three positions of which: - said first position in which said lever mechanically locks on said coupling element (23); - said second position in which said lever is in the unlocked condition with respect to said coupling element (23) allowing said inclination of said upper quarter (3) with respect to said shell (6), in said second position, said lever (17) being in an essentially spaced and separate position with respect to said coupling element (23); - a third position in which said lever (17) is in an unlocked condition with respect to said coupling element (23), in said third position said lever (17) being in a resting condition on a sliding surface (24) obtained above said coupling element (23), above being referred to the ground in a condition in which said boot (1) rests on the ground by means of said sole (10); said sliding surface (24) being adapted to guide said lever (17) between said third position and said first position. 5. Ski touring boot (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 4 characterized in that said lever (17) in said second position is positioned according to a position which is rotated by approximately 180 degrees with respect to the position of said lever (17) at said first position. Ski touring boot (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 4 to 5, characterized in that said sliding surface (24) is inclined by a third angle (c) with respect to a fixing surface (25) of said coupling element (23) on said hull (6), said third angle (c) being preferably greater 90 °, said third angle (c) being even more preferably comprised between 120 ° and 145 °. Ski touring boot (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 2 to 6 characterized in that said third hinging point (18) is obtained on a base element (16) which is fixed on said upper cuff (3) behind said boot (1) in correspondence with an area of the user's calf. said boot, said base element (16) comprising a first support surface (39) adapted to constitute a support surface for said lever (17) in the condition in which said lever (17) is in said second position. 8. Ski mountaineering boot (1) according to claim 7 characterized in that said first support surface (39) lies on a plane essentially parallel to said first plane (36), in said second position in which said lever (17 ) Is in a resting condition on said first support surface (39), said lever (17) being positioned according to a trend in which a third longitudinal axis (41) of said lever (17) is in an essentially vertical position with respect to said second plane (37), a tip end (42) of said lever (17) being positioned on the opposite side to said coupling element (23) with respect to said third hinging point (18). Ski touring boot (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 7 to 8, characterized in that said base element (16) comprises a second support surface (40) adapted to constitute a support surface for said lever (17) in the condition in which said lever (17) is in said first position, said second support surface (40) lying on a plane essentially parallel to said first plane (36), in said first position in which said lever (17) is in a resting condition on said second supporting surface (40), said lever (17) being positioned according to a course in which a third longitudinal axis (41) of said lever (17) is essentially vertical with respect to said second plane (37), a tip end (42) of said lever (17) being positioned on the side opposite to said coupling element (23) with respect to said third hinging point (18). Ski touring boot (1) according to claim 7 and according to claim 9 characterized in that said first support surface (39) and said second support surface (40) are mutually aligned on said first plane (36). Ski touring boot (1) according to claim 7 and according to claim 9 characterized in that said first support surface (39) and said second support surface (40) allow said rotation of said lever (17) around said third hinging point (18) according to a direction of rotation which is different depending on the fact that said boot (1) is a boot suitable to be fitted on the right foot of the user of said boot (1) or a boot suitable to be fitted on the left foot of the user of said boot (1): - if said boot (1) is a boot suitable to be fitted on a right foot of the user of said boot (1), said first support surface (39) and said second support surface (40) allowing rotation of said lever (17) according to a direction of rotation in a clockwise direction from said second position to said first position with reference to a view of said boot (1) from a rear point of view and, vice versa, said first support surface (39 ) and said second support surface (40) allowing a rotation of said lever (17) in an anticlockwise direction of rotation from said first position to said second position with reference to a view of said boot (1) from a point of rear view; - if said boot (1) is a boot suitable to be fitted on a left foot of the user of said boot (1), said first support surface (39) and said second support surface (40) allowing rotation of said lever (17) in an anticlockwise direction of rotation from said second position to said first position with reference to a view of said boot (1) from a rear point of view and, vice versa, said first support surface (39 ) and said second support surface (40) allowing a rotation of said lever (17) according to a direction of rotation in a clockwise direction from said first position to said second position with reference to a view of said boot (1) from a point of rear view; â € œrearâ € referring to an area of the boot which is an area opposite to a front area in correspondence with which a front attachment (8) is obtained for attachment to a ski according to the usual conventions adopted in the field of skiing. Ski touring boot (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 11 characterized in that said coupling element (23) comprises a hollow (22) having an essentially â € œCâ € conformation, said hollow (22) being suitable for the insertion of a protrusion (21), said protrusion (21) being integral with one end of said lever (17) which is an opposite end of said lever with respect to the end on which said third hinging point (18) is present, said protrusion (21) having an essentially cylindrical conformation. Ski touring boot (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 12 characterized in that comprises a front tongue (4) for closing at least a front portion of said upper cuff (3) in correspondence with an area of the leg of the user of said boot (1), said tongue (4) being selectively removable and applicable on said upper quarter (3), said tongue (4) and said upper quarter (3) comprising fastening means (26, 28) able to mutually couple for fixing in a removable way of said tongue (4) on said upper quarter (3) . 14. Ski mountaineering boot (1) according to claim 13 characterized in that said fastening means (26, 28) comprise a first pin (26), a second pin (27), a first hole (28), a second hole (29). 15. Ski mountaineering boot (1) according to claim 14 characterized by the fact that said first pin (26) is integral with a first wing (34) departing laterally and essentially orthogonally with respect to a central body (33) of said tongue (4) and said second pin (27) is integral with a second wing (35) departing laterally and essentially orthogonally with respect to said central body (33) of said tongue (4), said tongue (4) being constituted by said body (33) and said wings (34, 35) and having an essentially â € œCâ € plan conformation in which said first wing (34) and said second wing (35) depart essentially mutually parallel from said central body (33) , said first wing (34) being able to be inserted into a first gap formed between an internal side of said upper cuff (3) and an external side of an internal shoe (2) inserted into said boot (1), the fixing of said tab (4) on said g upper leg (3) by inserting said first pin (26) into a first hole (28) obtained on said upper leg (3) according to an insertion direction from the inside towards the outside with respect to the volume delimited by said upper quarter (3), and said second wing (35) being able to be inserted into a second interspace positioned on the opposite side with respect to said first interspace, said second interspace being formed between said inner side of said upper quarter (3) and said side of said inner shoe (2) inserted into said boot (1), the fixing of said tongue (4) on said upper quarter (3) by inserting said second pin (27) into a second hole (29) obtained on said upper quarter (3) according to an insertion direction from the inside towards the outside with respect to the volume delimited by said upper quarter (3). 16. Ski mountaineering boot (1) according to claim 15 characterized in that said first pin (26) is integral with said upper quarter (3) in correspondence with said first side (30) of said boot (1) and said second pin (27) is integral with said upper quarter (3) in correspondence with said second side (31) of said boot (1), said tongue (4) being provided with said first hole (28) and said second hole (29) in correspondence with opposite sides of said tongue (4), that is said tongue (4) being provided with said first hole (28) in correspondence of said first wing (34) and said second hole (29) in correspondence of said second wing (35), said tongue (4) being adapted to be fixed on said upper quarter (3) by means of a spreading of said wings (34, 35) by coupling said holes (28, 29) on said pins (26, 27). Ski touring boot (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 16 characterized in that comprises a cable (15), said cable (15) being fixed at its first end at said boot or said upper cuff and exerting a traction action on said lever (17) according to a traction direction opposing the rotation of said lever (17), said cable (15) being at least partially wrapped around said upper quarter (3), the winding of said cable (15) around said upper quarter (3) being guided by at least one loop (14, 20) suitable for the insertion of said cable (15). 18. Ski mountaineering boot (1) according to claim 17 characterized by the fact that said cable (15) is fixed in correspondence with a fixing hole on said lever (17), said hole being in a position along the longitudinal development of said lever which is a position comprised between said third hinging point (18) and an opposite end of said lever with respect to the end on which said third hinging point (18) is present. 19. Ski mountaineering boot (1) according to any one of the previous claims from 17 to 18 and according to any of the previous claims from 8 to 17 characterized in that said cable (15) is fixed to said upper cuff (3) in correspondence of a side of said upper quarter which is an opposite side with respect to the side of said base element (16) on which said first support surface (39) is present. 20. Ski touring boot (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 19 characterized in that comprises magnetic coupling means between said lever (17) and said base element (16) at least in a selected position between said first position and said second position. 21. Ski touring boot (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 20 characterized in that in correspondence with said sole (10) it comprises at least one insert (45, 46, 47, 48) equipped with blocks suitable for gripping a snow-covered surface during the walking phases, said insert being selected from the group consisting of: - a first insert (45) made of expanded rubber; - a second insert (46) made of wear-resistant vulcanized rubber; - a third insert (47) made of expanded rubber; - a fourth insert (48) made of wear-resistant vulcanized rubber. 22. Ski mountaineering boot (1) according to claim 21 characterized by the fact that said second insert (46) is essentially â € œUâ € with two arms connected by a base of said â € œUâ € and à ̈ positioned on said sole (10) with the connecting base positioned in correspondence with a toe portion (7) of said boot (1) and with the arms of the â € œUâ € conformation that develop in a direction oriented towards a heel (43) of said boot (1), and further characterized in that said first insert (45) is inserted within the space delimited by said arms of said essentially "U" shape of said second insert (46). 23. Ski touring boot (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 21 to 22 characterized in that said fourth insert (48) is essentially â € œUâ € conformation with two arms connected by a base of said â € œUâ € conformation and is positioned on said sole (10) with the connection base positioned in correspondence with said heel (43) of said boot (1) and with the arms of the `` U '' shape that develop in a direction oriented towards said toe portion (7) of said boot (1), and further characterized by the fact that said third insert (47) is inserted within the space delimited by said arms of said essentially "U" conformation of said fourth insert (48).