US20170014707A1 - Golf grip aid and method - Google Patents

Abstract

Provided is a golf glove and a golf grip having corresponding patterns that enable a proper grip of a golf club. The golf glove and/or grip can come made with the patterns, or the patterns can be subsequently added. In the latter case, a golf grip template and a golf glove template can be provided, each including a respective pattern. The patterns can be transposed onto the golf grip and/or golf glove using the appropriate template. In some embodiments, the same template, such as a flexible template, can be used to mark a glove and a grip.

Description

FIELD OF INTEREST
• The present inventive concepts relate to the sport of golf, and more particularly to aids for improving a player's golf game.
BACKGROUND
• As a competitive and recreational sport, the game of golf is extremely popular across the globe. For instance, golf is extremely popular in the United States, Europe, and several Asian countries, among others. Golf is somewhat unique in that it enjoys popularity with both genders and all age groups.
• Conceptually, the game of golf is straightforward. The game is played on a golf course having a number of “holes;” a traditional golf course has 18 holes. Each hole as a starting point, called a tee, and an ending point, called a cup. Each player is equipped with a set of golf clubs for striking and propelling his golf ball. Each club as a head at a distal end for striking the ball and a grip at a proximal end for holding the club. For each hole, each player attempts to hit its golf ball from the tee into the cup in as few strokes (or shots) possible. In the most traditional form, each player's strokes are summed for each hole to arrive at a hole score and the scores for all holes for a player are summed to arrive at a player's game score. The player with the lowest score wins.
• Striking a golf ball with a golf club involves a wide range of biomechanics. Generally speaking, to hit a golf ball straight, which is typically the goal, a surface of the club head that strikes the ball must be orthogonal to the intended direction of flight of the golf ball. However, with the wide range of moving parts in a golf swing, this can be extremely difficult to repeatedly accomplish correctly.
• A fundamental factor in accomplishing correct striking of a golf ball is the golf grip, i.e., the placement of the golfer's hands around the grip at the proximal end of the golf club. Ensuring a proper golf grip would be useful for reliably striking of a golf ball, thereby improving scores and enjoyment of the game of golf.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
• In accordance with aspects of the inventive concept, provided is a golf glove template, comprising a substrate defining a golf glove guide and a glove pattern provided within the golf glove guide, the glove pattern comprising one or more lines, numbers, symbols, shapes, or a combination thereof arranged to align with a corresponding pattern of a golf grip.
• In various embodiments, the glove pattern extends partially up the index finger.
• In various embodiments, the glove pattern is a pre-inked pattern configured to be applied to a palm side of the golf glove.
• In various embodiments, one or more through-holes or channels define the glove pattern.
• In various embodiments, the one or more through-holes or channels are configured to receive a marking device, including a writing implement chosen from a group comprising a pen, a marker, or a pencil.
• In various embodiments, the substrate is formed of a substantially rigid or semi-rigid material.
• In various embodiments, the substrate is formed of a flexible material.
• In various embodiments, wherein the glove pattern is a linear pattern that includes a solid line.
• In various embodiments, the glove pattern is a linear pattern that includes a dashed line, broken line, or a dotted line.
• In various embodiments, the glove pattern comprises one or more numbers.
• In various embodiments, the glove pattern comprises one or more symbols.
• In various embodiments, the glove pattern comprises one or more shapes.
• In accordance with another aspect of the inventive concept, provided is a golf club grip template, comprising a substrate configured to at least partially wrap around a golf grip, at least one golf grip alignment marking formed on or in the substrate, and a grip pattern formed on or in the substrate in relation the at least one golf grip alignment marking, the grip pattern comprising one or more lines, numbers, symbols, shapes, or a combination thereof.
• In various embodiments, the grip pattern is a pre-inked pattern configured to be applied to the golf grip.
• In various embodiments, one or more through-holes or channels define the grip pattern.
• In various embodiments, the one or more through-holes or channels are configured to receive a marking device, including a writing implement chosen from a group comprising a pen, a marker, or a pencil.
• In various embodiments, the substrate is formed of a substantially rigid or semi-rigid material,
• In various embodiments, the substrate is formed of a flexible material.
• In various embodiments, the grip pattern is a linear pattern that includes a solid line.
• In various embodiments, the grip pattern is a linear pattern that includes a dashed line, broken line, or a dotted line.
• In various embodiments, the grip pattern comprises one or more numbers.
• In various embodiments, the grip pattern comprises one or more symbols.
• In various embodiments, the grip pattern comprises one or more shapes.
• In accordance with another aspect of the inventive concept, provided is a golf glove, comprising a palm, and a glove pattern formed on the palm, wherein the glove pattern is a linear pattern that begins near a base of a thumb, continues diagonally across a palm, and returns across the palm to a base of an index finger of the golf glove.
• In various embodiments, the linear pattern extends partially up the index finger.
• In various embodiments, the linear pattern is a solid line.
• In various embodiments, the linear pattern is a dashed line, broken line, or a dotted line.
• In various embodiments, the linear pattern is a linear arrangement of symbols, characters, or shapes.
• In various embodiments, the linear pattern is arranged to mate with a corresponding linear pattern on a golf grip to achieve a predetermined golf club grip.
• In accordance with another aspect of the inventive concept, provided is a golf club grip, comprising a centerline marking, and a grip pattern formed in relation the at least one golf grip centerline marking, wherein the grip pattern is a linear pattern that begins near a top of the golf grip and extends downwardly and to an intermediate portion of the golf grip.
• In various embodiments, the linear pattern is a solid line.
• In various embodiments, the linear pattern is a dashed line, broken line, or a dotted line.
• In various embodiments, the linear pattern is a linear arrangement of symbols, characters, or shapes.
• In various embodiments, the linear pattern is arranged to mate with a corresponding linear pattern on a golf glove to achieve a predetermined golf club grip.
• In accordance with another aspect of the inventive concept, provided is a golf grip system, comprising a golf glove having a first linear pattern on a palm side of the golf glove, and a golf grip having a second linear pattern that aligns with the first linear pattern when gripping a golf club to establish a predetermined golf grip.
• In various embodiments, the first linear pattern and the second linear pattern have the same shape.
• In various embodiments, at least one of the first linear pattern and the second linear pattern is a solid line.
• In various embodiments, at least one of the first linear pattern and the second linear pattern is a dashed line, broken line, or a dotted line.
• In various embodiments, the first linear pattern begins near a base of a thumb, continues diagonally across a palm, and returns across the palm to a base of an index finger of the golf glove.
• In various embodiments, the first linear pattern extends partially up the index finger.
• In various embodiments, the system further comprises a template defining the first linear pattern and configured to transfer the first linear pattern onto the palm side of the golf glove.
• In various embodiments, the template comprises the first linear pattern as a pre-inked pattern configured to be applied to the palm side of the golf glove.
• In various embodiments, the template includes one or more through-holes or channels defining the first linear pattern.
• In various embodiments, the one or more through-holes or channels are configured to receive a marking device, including a writing implement chosen from a group comprising a pen, a marker, or a pencil.
• In various embodiments, the template is formed of a substantially rigid material,
• In various embodiments, the template is formed of a flexible material.
• In various embodiments, the first linear pattern and the second linear pattern are the same and the template is further configured to wrap around the golf grip to enable transfer of the second linear pattern onto the golf grip.
• In various embodiments, system further comprises a template defining the second linear pattern and configured to transfer the second linear pattern onto the golf grip.
• In various embodiments, the template comprises the second linear pattern as a pre-inked pattern configured to be applied to the golf grip.
• In various embodiments, the template includes one or more through-holes or channels configured to enable transfer of the second linear pattern onto the golf grip with a marking device.
• In various embodiments, the marking device includes a writing implement chosen from a group comprising a pen, a marker, or a pencil.
• In various embodiments, the second linear pattern begins near a top of the golf grip and extends downwardly and partially around a circumference of the golf grip to an intermediate portion of the golf grip.
• In various embodiments, the predetermined golf grip is a neutral golf grip with respect to a centerline of the golf club.
• In accordance with another aspect of the inventive concept, provided is a method of marking a golf glove, comprising providing a golf glove having a palm side, providing a golf glove template, overlaying the golf glove template on the palm side of a golf glove in alignment with the golf glove guide, and transferring the glove pattern onto the palm side of the golf glove. The golf glove template includes a substrate defining a golf glove guide and a glove pattern within the golf glove guide, the glove pattern comprising one or more lines, numbers, symbols, shapes, or a combination thereof arranged to align with a corresponding pattern of a golf grip.
• In various embodiments, the glove pattern extends partially up the index finger.
• In various embodiments, the glove pattern takes the form of a pre-inked pattern on the template and the method includes transferring the glove pattern onto the grip side of the golf glove by contacting the pre-inked pattern to the grip side of the golf glove.
• In various embodiments, one or more through-holes or channels define the glove pattern and the method includes transferring the glove pattern onto the palm side of the golf glove by marking the palm side of the golf glove with a marking device through the through-holes or channels.
• In various embodiments, the marking device includes a writing implement chosen from a group comprising a pen, a marker, or a pencil.
• In various embodiments, the substrate is formed of a substantially rigid or semi-rigid material.
• In various embodiments, the substrate is formed of a flexible material.
• In various embodiments, the glove pattern is a linear pattern that includes a solid line.
• In various embodiments, the glove pattern is a linear pattern that includes a dashed line, broken line, or a dotted line.
• In various embodiments, the glove pattern comprises one or more numbers.
• In various embodiments, the glove pattern comprises one or more symbols.
• In various embodiments, the glove pattern comprises one or more shapes.
• In accordance with another aspect of the inventive concept, provided is a method of marking a golf club grip, comprising providing a golf grip having a centerline marking, providing a golf grip template, overlaying the golf grip template on a golf grip, including aligning the at least one golf grip alignment marking with the centerline marking of the golf grip, and transferring the grip pattern onto the golf grip. The golf grip template includes a substrate configured to at least partially wrap around the golf grip, at least one golf grip alignment marking formed on or in the substrate, and a grip pattern formed on or in the substrate in relation the at least one golf grip alignment marking, the grip pattern comprising one or more lines, numbers, symbols, shapes, or a combination thereof arranged to align with a corresponding pattern of a golf glove.
• In various embodiments, the grip pattern takes the form of a pre-inked pattern and the method includes transferring the grip pattern onto the golf grip by contacting the pre-inked pattern to the golf grip.
• In various embodiments, one or more through-holes or channels define the grip pattern and the method includes transferring the grip pattern onto the palm side of the golf glove by marking the golf grip with a marking device through the through-holes or channels.
• In various embodiments, the marking device includes a writing implement chosen from a group comprising a pen, a marker, or a pencil.
• In various embodiments, the substrate is formed of a substantially rigid or semi-rigid material.
• In various embodiments, the substrate is formed of a flexible material,
• In various embodiments, the grip pattern is a linear pattern that includes a solid line.
• In various embodiments, the grip pattern is a linear pattern that includes a dashed line, broken line, or a dotted line.
• In accordance with another aspect of the inventive concept, provided is a golf equipment marking template, comprising a substrate defining at least one alignment or guide marking and a pattern provided in or on the substrate in relation to the at least one alignment or guide marking, the pattern comprising one or more lines, numbers, symbols, shapes, or a combination thereof arranged to facilitate a predetermined grip between a golf glove and a golf club grip.
• In various embodiments, the template is structured to transfer the pattern to a palm of the golf glove.
• In various embodiments, the template is structured to transfer the pattern to the golf grip.
• In various embodiments, the template is structured to transfer the pattern to a palm of the golf glove and the golf grip.
• In various embodiments, the pattern is a pre-inked pattern configured to be applied to a palm side of the golf glove and/or a golf grip.
• In various embodiments, one or more through-holes or channels define the pattern.
• In various embodiments, the one or more through-holes or channels are configured to receive a marking device, including a writing implement chosen from a group comprising a pen, a marker, or a pencil.
• In various embodiments, the substrate is formed of a substantially rigid or semi-rigid material.
• In various embodiments, the substrate is formed of a flexible material.
• In various embodiments, the pattern is a linear pattern.
• In various embodiments, the linear pattern includes a solid line.
• In various embodiments, the linear pattern includes a dashed line, broken line, or a dotted line.
• In various embodiments, the linear pattern is configured such that when applied to a palm of the golf glove, the linear pattern begins near a base of a thumb, continues diagonally across a palm, and returns across the palm to a base of an index finger of the golf glove.
• In various embodiments, the linear pattern is structured such that when applied to the golf grip, the linear pattern begins near a top of the golf grip and extends downwardly and to an intermediate portion of the golf grip.
• In various embodiments, the template is structure for use with the golf glove and the golf grip, and the linear pattern is structured such that when applied to a palm of the golf glove, the linear pattern begins near a base of a thumb, continues diagonally across a palm, and returns across the palm to a base of an index finger of the golf glove, and the linear pattern is structured such that when applied to the golf grip, the linear pattern begins near a top of the golf grip and extends downwardly and to an intermediate portion of the golf grip.
• In various embodiments, the pattern comprises one or more numbers.
• In various embodiments, the pattern comprises one or more symbols.
• In various embodiments, the pattern comprises one or more shapes.
• In accordance with another aspect of the inventive concept, provided is a golf glove template as shown and described.
• In accordance with another aspect of the inventive concept, provided is a golf grip template as shown and described.
• In accordance with another aspect of the inventive concept, provided is a golf grip kit including a golf glove template and a golf club grip template as shown and described.
• In accordance with another aspect of the inventive concept, provided is a golf glove as shown and described.
• In accordance with another aspect of the inventive concept, provided is a golf grip as shown and described.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• The present invention will become more apparent in view of the attached drawings and accompanying detailed description. The embodiments depicted therein are provided by way of example, not by way of limitation, wherein like reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating aspects of the invention. In the drawings:
• FIG. 1 provides a set of views of a first embodiment of a golf grip template having a linear pattern, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept;
• FIG. 2 provides a set of views depicting steps of a first embodiment of a method of marking a golf grip using the golf grip template ofFIG. 1, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept;
• FIG. 3 provides a front view of a first embodiment of a golf glove template having a linear pattern, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept;
• FIG. 4 provides a front view of the golf glove template ofFIG. 3 and a golf glove, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept;
• FIG. 5 provides a front view depicting steps of a first embodiment of a method of marking a golf glove using the golf glove template ofFIG. 3, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept;
• FIG. 6 provides a front view of a first embodiment of a golf glove marked according to the method ofFIG. 5, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept;
• FIG. 7A provides a front view showing correspondence of the linear pattern of the marked golf glove ofFIG. 6 and the marked golf grip ofFIG. 2, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept;
• FIG. 7B provides a view showing a grip template and a glove template with golf glove, as a golf grip kit, using the embodiments ofFIGS. 1-6, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept;
• FIG. 8 provides a set of views of a second embodiment of a golf grip template having a pattern of isolated shapes, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept;
• FIG. 9 provides a set of views depicting steps of a second embodiment of a method of marking a golf grip using the golf grip template ofFIG. 8, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept;
• FIG. 10 provides a front view of a second embodiment of a golf glove template having a pattern of isolated shapes, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept;
• FIG. 11 provides a front view of the golf glove template ofFIG. 10 and a golf glove, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept;
• FIG. 12 provides a front view depicting steps of a second embodiment of a method of marking a golf glove using the golf glove template ofFIG. 10, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept;
• FIG. 13 provides a front view of a second embodiment of a golf glove marked according to the method ofFIG. 12, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept;
• FIG. 14A provides a front view showing correspondence of the pattern of isolated shapes of the marked golf glove ofFIG. 13 and the marked golf grip ofFIG. 9, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept;
• FIG. 14B provides a view showing a grip template and a glove template with golf glove, as a golf grip kit, using the embodiments ofFIGS. 8-13, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept;
• FIG. 15 provides a set of views of a third embodiment of a golf grip template having a pattern of numbers, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept;
• FIG. 16 provides a set of views depicting steps of a third embodiment of a method of marking a golf grip using the golf grip template ofFIG. 15, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept;
• FIG. 17 provides a front view of a third embodiment of a golf glove template having a pattern of numbers, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept;
• FIG. 18 provides a front view of the golf glove template ofFIG. 17 and a golf glove, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept;
• FIG. 19 provides a front view depicting steps of a third embodiment of a method of marking a golf glove using the golf glove template ofFIG. 17, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept;
• FIG. 20 provides a front view of a third embodiment of a golf glove marked according to the method ofFIG. 19, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept; and
• FIG. 21A provides a front view showing correspondence of the pattern of numbers of the marked golf glove ofFIG. 20 and the marked golf grip ofFIG. 16, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept; and
• FIG. 21B provides a view showing a grip template and a glove template with golf glove, as a golf grip kit, using the embodiments ofFIGS. 15-20, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
• Various exemplary embodiments will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some exemplary embodiments are shown. The present inventive concept may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the exemplary embodiments set forth herein.
• It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element from another, but not to imply a required sequence of elements. For example, a first element can be termed a second element, and, similarly, a second element can be termed a first element, without departing from the scope of the present invention. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
• It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “on” or “connected” or “coupled” to another element, it can be directly on or connected or coupled to the other element or intervening elements can be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on” or “directly connected” or “directly coupled” to another element, there are no intervening elements present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.).
• The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes” and/or “including,” when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.
• Spatially relative terms, such as “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper” and the like may be used to describe an element and/or feature's relationship to another element(s) and/or feature(s) as, for example, illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use and/or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” and/or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. The device may be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.
• With respect to various drawings, dimensions or ratios may be shown, described, or implied, as examples. The present inventive concepts are not limited to such dimensions or ratios of dimensions, unless otherwise indicated or reasonably understood.
• In accordance with the inventive concept, a golf glove and golf club grip (or “golf grip”) are provided with at least one pattern that ensures proper golf club gripping by a golfer. The pattern may be a linear pattern, or comprise linear portions, or may comprise one or more shapes, symbols, icons, numbers, or other forms of indicia. In a preferred form, the golf grip of a golf club has a first pattern and the golf glove has a corresponding second pattern. When the first pattern of the golf glove is married with the corresponding second pattern of the golf grip, a proper golf grip is achieved. “Correspondence” or “corresponding” as used herein means that the first and second patterns are formed so that when married together or aligned as a golfer grips a golf club, the golfer's grip has a desirable and predetermined orientation with respect to the golf club head that increases the likelihood of proper striking of a golf ball to achieve a substantially straight flight path.
• The first pattern on the golf grip and the second pattern on the golf glove can be the same in some embodiments, i.e., mirror images of each other. But in other embodiments, the first and second patterns may be different. In such cases, a corresponding relationship between the first and second patterns may exist that allows them to be married or aligned together, despite not being the same. For example, the second pattern could include a negative representation of the first pattern, or vice versa, as examples. As another example, the first pattern could include certain elements and the second pattern could include elements that fit with the elements of the first pattern. There are a variety of possibilities for corresponding patterns.
• In some embodiments, the golf glove and/or the golf grip may come made with the first pattern and/or the second pattern built-in. In other embodiments, existing golf gloves and/or golf grips can be modified to include the first and/or second pattern, as the case may be. In the case of modifying either of the grip or glove, one or more templates or stencils could be provided to facilitate transferring a pattern from the template to the glove, grip, or both. In some embodiments, there may be a separate glove template and a separate grip template. In other embodiments, the same template could be used for both the glove and the grip.
• While proper gripping with both hands is important for a good grip, the top hand is generally considered in the embodiments described herein. Therefore, the first and second patterns described herein are with respect to a top hand of a golf grip, as it is considered of greater importance of a proper grip. For a right-handed golfer, the left hand is the top hand. But for a left-handed golfer, the right hand is the top hand,
• FIGS. 1-7 provide a set of views of a first embodiment of a golf grip and a golf glove having corresponding first and second patterns used to assist a golfer in achieving a proper golf club grip, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept. In this embodiment, the first and second patterns are linear patterns. In a preferred embodiment, the linear pattern progresses from one point to another point with changes in direction, and need not be a straight line. The linear patterns inFIGS. 1-7 are demonstrated for illustrative purposes as lines having straight portions and curved portions.
• Referring toFIG. 1, agolf grip template100 is shown that includes a substrate with alinear grip pattern102 formed on or in the substrate that is used for marking agolf grip2. In this embodiment, thegolf grip template100 defines thelinear pattern102 as a continuous line with changes in direction. But in other embodiments, thelinear pattern102 could comprise a plurality of curved and/or straight line segments. In some embodiments, continuous line or line segments, the line pattern could be solid, dashed, dotted, broken, or formed of various shapes and/or symbols. In the case of using shapes and/or symbols, a plurality of shapes and/or symbols may be used and arranged to form an overall impression of a line, rather than an overall impression of a few disparate shapes and/or symbols.
• Thelinear pattern102 is included on thegolf grip2 to ensure that a player's hand placement on the golf grip of a golf club promotes proper striking of a golf ball. Here, proper striking assumes that a face of the club head is perpendicular to the intended flight path of the ball. It is, therefore, important that the linear pattern be properly aligned on the golf grip and on a grip side of the golf glove.
• Thegrip2 can includemarkings5,6 on a grip top and bottom, respectively, which define points on a centerline C of the club. The centerline C may be considered to be a 0 degree line. Thegrip template100 is formed such that when the grip template is aligned with the centerline C of the golf club, thegrip pattern102 will have a specific orientation with respect to the club face. Accordingly, thegrip template100 can includecenterline markings105,106 that can be visually lined up with thegrip markings5,6 to make sure that thegrip template100 is correctly oriented with respect to the centerline C of the golf club, and therefore the club face. This grip pattern alignment results in a neutral grip when used in conjunction with a corresponding golf glove discussed below. If a golfer prefers to have a slightly offset grip, he or she can rotate thegrip template100 left or right, to be slightly off center of that neutral 0° centerline C, to get a custom grip that is not neutral.
• In some embodiments, the grip template can be removable, while thegrip pattern102 can be permanently applied to the grip. In such embodiments, with the grip template in place and aligned on the grip, thelinear pattern102 can be transferred from thegrip template100 to thegolf grip2, and then thegrip template100 can be removed from thegrip2. While in other embodiments, thegrip template102 may not be removable. For example, thegolf grip template100 could be a sleeve, decal, or other medium attached or adhered to an existing golf grip.
• FIG. 1(a) shows a perspective view of thegolf grip2 in dashed outline, without thegrip pattern102.FIG. 1(b) shows a perspective view of an embodiment of thegolf grip template100.FIG. 1(c) shows a perspective view thegolf grip2 disposed within thegolf grip template100. The golf grip template is shown as wrapped around or surrounding thegolf grip2. AndFIG. 1(d) shows a front view of thegolf grip template100 wrapped around or surrounding thegolf grip2.
• In this embodiment, thelinear pattern102 begins near a top portion (A) of thegrip template100 and extends downwardly and around the grip template to an intermediate portion (B) thereof. Also in this embodiment, the linear pattern extends around a majority of thegrip template100.
• In preferred embodiments, thegolf grip template100 is applied, disposed, or temporarily secured over thegolf grip2 and aligned for transferring thelinear pattern102 to thegolf grip2, as shown inFIGS. 1(c), 1(d) and 2(a). With the golf grip template on the golf grip and aligned, thelinear pattern102 can be transferred to thegolf grip1 Thegolf grip template100 can then be removed from thegolf grip2, as is shown inFIG. 2(b).
• In some embodiments, an internal diameter or circumference of thegolf grip template100 can be substantially the same or slightly smaller than an outer diameter or circumference of thegolf grip2, so that the golf grip template makes a snug and/or slight compression fit on or around the golf grip. But in other embodiments, thegrip template100 can be slightly larger than thegrip2 and, optionally, compressed onto or otherwise held against the golf grip for transferring the linear pattern. That is, in various embodiments, the internal diameter or circumference of thegrip template100 can be malleable.
• Thegolf grip template100, including the substrate, can be substantially rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible, depending on the embodiment. In flexible embodiments, thegolf grip template100 can be made of a flexible material, e.g., fabric, soft plastic, paper, silicone, rubber, and so on. In flexible embodiments, thegolf grip template100 can take the form of a sheet that can be wrapped around thegolf grip2 and temporarily adhered, secured, or held to or on thegrip2. Also in a flexible embodiment, such as with a flexible sheet, the grip template can also be used to mark a golf glove, e.g., by being laid flat on the palm side of the glove.
• In other flexible embodiments, thegolf grip template100 can take the form of a flexible truncated cone that can be stretched over thegolf grip2, e.g., if made from rubber, silicone or similar stretchable material,
• In rigid or semi-rigid embodiments, thegolf grip template100 can be made of a hard plastic, such as a molded plastic, that substantially maintains its shape in use and nonuse. Such materials can also have some degree of flexibility, sufficient to adapt to dimensions of thegolf grip2. As one example, thegolf grip template100 can be a single piece of hard plastic, or similar material. The present invention is not limited to a single piece of material or a hard plastic material, e.g., other rigid or semi-rigid materials could be used. And in some embodiments, thegrip template100 could include two or more pieces, e.g., that snap together to wrap around or encase thegolf grip2.
• To facilitate temporary placement of thegolf grip template100 on thegolf grip2, and subsequentgolf grip template100 removal, avertical slit110 can be provided, here shown at a rear of thegolf grip template100. Thevertical slit110 can be included as a mechanism that allows thegolf grip template100 to receive thegolf grip2. For example, using thevertical slit110, thegrip template100 can fit over a golf club shaft (not shown), and then slid up the shaft so it substantially surrounds thegrip2. If the grip template is rigid, thevertical slit110 can be wide enough to receive a golf club shaft or lower portion of thegrip2 without substantial deformation or opening of the vertical slit, and then thegrip template100 can be slid up the shaft to receive thegolf grip2.
• If the template is semi-rigid, such as with a plastic, resin, or similar material, thevertical slit110 need not be as wide as the shaft or lower portion of thegrip2, since the grip template could be sufficiently pliable so that it can be pried open to receive the shaft or lower portion of the grip. Therefore, when included, thevertical slit110, particularly in a semi-rigid embodiment, allows thegrip template100 to be adaptable to different grip diameters, sizes and/or thicknesses.
• In still other embodiments, the grip template need not substantially surround or encase thegrip2, wherein the grip template could be an overlay or stencil that is directly applied to thegrip2, without having to: be slip up or down the shaft. In such embodiments, the grip template could be an arc-shaped stencil that partially surrounds the grip.
• Referring again toFIGS. 1(c) and 1(d), the top portion (A) of thegrip template100 is positioned proximate to a top of thegolf grip2. In other embodiments, the top portion of the template could be at the top of thegrip2. The proximity of the top of the grip template to the top of the grip can be a user preference.
• In various embodiments,grip template100 can be a grip sleeve that is disposed on the grip and remains in place during use of the golf club. The grip sleeve could be substantially rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible. As an example, a flexible grip sleeve could take the form of a rubber sleeve including thelinear pattern102, which can be stretched open to receive thegolf grip2 and aligned. Such a sleeve need not have a vertical slit, such as the full top-to-bottomvertical slit110 discussed above.
• FIG. 2 provides a set of views depictinggrip template100 andgrip2, which demonstrate steps of a method of marking agolf grip2 using thegolf grip template100 ofFIG. 1, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept.FIGS. 1(c)-1(d) can be viewed as providing initial steps of the method, where thegrip template100 is disposed on thegrip2 inFIG. 1(c) and aligned inFIG. 1(d). InFIG. 2, thegrip template100 is disposed on thegrip2 and aligned for marking.
• InFIG. 2(a), with thegrip template100 in place on thegrip2, a markingdevice50, e.g., a writing implement, is shown transferring thelinear pattern102 from thegrip template100 to thegrip2. For example, thelinear pattern102 can include one or more through-holes or channels configured to enable transfer of the linear pattern onto the golf grip with a marking device. The marking device can be a writing implement chosen from a group comprising a pen, a marker, a pencil, or the like.
• InFIG. 2(b), thegrip template100 has been removed, andgrip2 is shown with thelinear pattern102 transferred onto thegrip2. Thus,FIG. 2(b) shows agolf grip2 comprising alinear pattern102 useful with a corresponding pattern on a golf glove to reliably provide proper golf club gripping by a golfer.
• In yet other embodiments, the linear pattern can take the form of a pre-inked pattern and the method can include transferring the linear pattern onto the golf grip by contacting the pre-inked pattern to the golf grip. In yet another embodiment, the linear pattern can take the form of a decal and the method can include transferring the linear pattern decal onto the golf grip so that it adheres to the golf grip. In each case, the result is thegolf grip2 ofFIG. 2(b)—including thelinear pattern102.
• FIG. 3 provides a front view of a first embodiment ofgolf glove template200 that includes a substrate having alinear glove pattern202, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept. Thegrip pattern102 of thegolf grip template100 can be considered a first pattern and theglove pattern202 ofglove template200 can be considered a second pattern, for ease of description. In this embodiment, the first and second patterns are both linear patterns, as discussed above. If thegrip template100 were laid flat, thelinear pattern102 of thegrip template100 would have the same shape as thelinear pattern202 of theglove template200, in this embodiment.
• The patterns templates can be slightly adjusted in scale/placement to accommodate different sized gloves (and hands). For example, various templates can be provided for different size gloves (and hands), e.g., children's, men's, and women's size categories can be accommodated with different templates. Within a category, e.g., the women's category, different sizes can be accommodated with different templates. For example, there could be a women's small template, a women's medium template, and a women's large template. In other embodiments, there could be a single template with different sized patterns and glove guides. For example, a women's template could be formed with a small pattern, medium pattern, and a large pattern. Each pattern could, optionally, use a different forms of lines, symbols, shapes, numbers, and so on. For example, on a single template, a small size could be indicated with a dashed line, a medium size could be indicated with a dotted line, and a large size could be indicated with a solid line.
• In this embodiment, theglove template200 defines thelinear pattern202 as a continuous line with changes in direction, but in other embodiments, thelinear pattern202 could comprise a plurality of line segments. In either case, continuous line or line segments, the line pattern could be solid, dashed, dotted, broken, or formed of various shapes and/or symbols. In the case of using shapes and/or symbols, a plurality of shapes and/or symbols may be used and arranged to form an overall impression of a line, rather than an overall impression of a few disparate shapes and/or symbols.
• The glove template is formed of a piece of material of sufficient size and dimension to include aglove guide206, within which can be provided theglove pattern202. In this embodiment, theglove guide206 takes the form of a substantially complete glove outline, but this need not be the case in all embodiments. Generally, the golf glove guide comprises one or more indicia that enable alignment of a glove with respect to the template to facilitate proper transference of the second pattern onto the palm of the golf glove. The indicia can be formed on and/or in theglove template200. Unlike the illustrated embodiment, the golf glove guide can comprise a partial glove placement illustration, rather than a full glove illustration.
• InFIG. 3, theglove template200 is shown to have a rectangular shape. But the shape of the glove template is not limited to a rectangle; the outer shape of the glove template is not significant as long as it contains theglove pattern202. In some embodiments, for example, theglove template200 could be the same shape as theglove guide206, i.e., theglove template200 could be the shape of a golf glove.
• Theglove template200, and substrate, can be made of a rigid, semi-rigid or flexible material, as discussed above. In flexible embodiments, theglove template200 can be made of a flexible material, e.g., fabric, soft plastic, paper, silicone, rubber, and so on. In flexible embodiments, theglove template200 can take the form of a flexible sheet that can be laid flat on a palm side of a golf glove and held in place to transfer thelinear pattern202 to the palm side of the glove. Also in a flexible embodiment, such as when the template is a flexible sheet, the glove template can also be used to mark a golf grip, e.g., by being wrapped around the grip and aligned with a grip centerline marking.
• In rigid or semi-rigid embodiments, thegolf grip template100 can be made of a hard plastic, such as a molded plastic, that substantially maintains its shape in use and nonuse. For example, thegolf glove template200 can be a single piece of hard plastic. The present invention is not limited to a single piece of material or a hard plastic material, e.g., other rigid or semi-rigid materials could be used. And in some embodiments, theglove template200 could include two or more pieces.
• InFIG. 4, theglove template200 is shown along with an example of agolf glove12, to demonstrate how the palm side of thegolf glove12 can be aligned with theglove guide206, thereby aligning theglove pattern202 with the palm of theglove12. In this embodiment, theglove template200 is transparent, or at least sufficiently transparent to enable the glove to be aligned with theglove guide206. But if theglove template200 is the shape of the glove (or glove guide), then transparency is not particularly necessary. In such a case, theglove template200 could be opaque or nearly opaque. A right-handed glove12 andglove template200 are shown as an example inFIG. 4. By flipping glove template over, theglove template200 could be used with a left-handed glove (not shown).
• Within theglove template200, theglove pattern202 is oriented with respect to theglove guide206, and the glove guide enables placement of a golf glove so theglove pattern202 can be properly located within a palm side of thegolf glove12.
• Referring toFIG. 5, theglove template200 is placed on theglove12 so that the glove is located within theglove guide206. This orientation allows theglove pattern202 to be correctly transferred to the palm side of the glove. In this embodiment, thelinear pattern202 includes one or more through-holes or channels formed in theglove template200, which are configured to enable transfer of thelinear pattern202 onto the glove using a markingdevice50. The marking device can be a writing implement chosen from a group comprising a pen, a marker, a pencil, or the like.
• Referring toFIG. 6, theglove template200, markingdevice50, andmarked golf glove12 are shown. Here it can be seen that thelinear pattern202 has been transferred to theglove12. In this embodiment, thelinear pattern202 begins near a base of a thumb, continues diagonally across a palm, and returns across the palm to a base of an index finger of thegolf glove12. Also in this embodiment, the linear pattern extends across a majority of the golf glove palm and back,
• In yet other embodiments, thelinear pattern202 can take the form of a pre-inked pattern and the method can include transferring the linear pattern onto the golf glove by contacting the pre-inked pattern to the golf glove. In yet another embodiment, the linear pattern can take the form of a decal and the method can include transferring the linear pattern decal onto the golf glove so that it adheres to the golf glove. In other embodiments, thelinear pattern202 can be formed on a stamp, and stamped onto the palm of the golf glove. In each case, the result is thegolf glove12 ofFIG. 6 including thelinear pattern202.
• FIG. 7A shows how amarked glove12 can be used with amarked grip2. InFIG. 7A, the concept of “marrying” the first and second patterns is demonstrated, wherein thegolf glove12 is placed on the golf grip so that the secondlinear pattern202 on theglove12 is overlapped with the firstlinear pattern102 on thegrip2 when a player grips the golf club.
• FIG. 7B provides a view showing agrip template100 and aglove template200 withgolf glove12, as a golf grip kit, using the embodiments ofFIGS. 1-6, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept. The two templates could be provided together as a kit, which need not include theglove12.
• FIGS. 8-14 provide a set of views of a second embodiment of a golf grip and a golf glove having corresponding first and second patterns to assist a golfer in achieving a proper golf club grip, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept.
• The embodiment ofFIGS. 8-14 is similar to that of the first embodiment ofFIGS. 1-7. However, in the embodiment ofFIGS. 8-14, the first and second patterns are non-linear patterns of isolated shapes, which are different from the linear patterns ofFIGS. 1-7. To avoid redundancy, concepts described with respect toFIGS. 1-7 will not be repeated here for describingFIGS. 8-14, although they should be reasonably understood to apply.
• Referring toFIG. 8, agolf grip template800 is shown including a pattern ofisolated shapes802 used for marking agolf grip2, includinggrip markings5,6. In this embodiment, thegolf grip template800 defines the pattern ofisolated shapes802 as a non-continuous, non-linear arrangement of diamond shapes, but in other embodiments the pattern ofisolated shapes802 could comprise a plurality of different shapes. In either case, the shapes could all be the same shape or different shapes, or the same or different symbols. In the case of using shapes and/or symbols, a plurality of shapes and/or symbols may be used and arranged to form an overall impression of a plurality of disparate shapes and/or symbols.
• In this embodiment, the pattern ofisolated shapes802 includes a first shape803 near a top portion (A) of thegrip template800 and a cluster of three shapes804 at an intermediate portion (B) thereof. Thegrip template800 can also includecenterline markings805,806 that can be visually lined up with thegrip markings5,6 to make sure that thegrip template800 is correctly oriented with respect to the centerline C of the golf club, and therefore the club face, as described above.
• More particularly,FIG. 8(a) shows a perspective view of anunmarked golf grip2, in dashed outline.FIG. 8(b) shows a perspective view of an embodiment of thegolf grip template800.FIG. 8(c) shows a perspective view thegolf grip2 disposed within thegolf grip template800. The golf grip template is shown as wrapped around or surrounding thegolf grip2. AndFIG. 8(d) shows a front view of thegolf grip template800 wrapped around or surrounding thegolf grip2.
• FIG. 9 provides a set of views depictinggrip template800 andgrip2, demonstrating steps of a method of marking agolf grip2 using thegolf grip template800 ofFIG. 8, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept.FIGS. 8(c)-8(d) can be viewed as providing initial steps of the method, where thegrip template800 is disposed on the grip inFIG. 8(c) and aligned inFIG. 8(d). InFIG. 9, thegrip template800 is disposed on thegrip2 and aligned for marking.
• InFIG. 9(a), with thegrip template800 in place on thegrip2, a markingdevice50, e.g., a writing implement, is shown transferring the pattern ofisolated shapes802 from thegrip template800 to thegrip2. For example, the pattern ofisolated shapes802 can include one or more through-holes configured to enable transfer of the pattern ofisolated shapes802 onto the golf grip with a marking device. The marking device can be a writing implement chosen from a group comprising a pen, a marker, a pencil, or the like.
• InFIG. 9(b), thegrip template800 has been removed, andgrip2 is shown with the pattern ofisolated shapes802 transferred onto thegrip2. Thus,FIG. 9(b) shows agolf grip2 comprising the pattern ofisolated shapes802 useful with a corresponding pattern in a golf glove to reliably provide a proper golf club gripping by a golfer,
• FIG. 10 provides a front view of another embodiment of agolf glove template900 having a pattern ofisolated shapes902, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept. The pattern ofisolated shapes802 of thegolf grip template800 can be considered a first pattern and theglove pattern902 ofglove template900 can be considered a second pattern, for ease of description. In this embodiment, the first and second patterns are both patterns of isolated shapes, as discussed above. If thegrip template800 were laid flat, thegrip pattern802 of thegrip template800 would have the same configuration of shapes as theglove pattern902 of theglove template900, in this embodiment.
• In this embodiment, theglove template900 defines the pattern of isolated shapes as a non-continuous, non-linear arrangement of diamond shapes, but in other embodiments, the pattern ofisolated shapes902 could comprise a plurality of other shapes or symbols. In this case, the pattern ofisolated shapes902 gives an overall impression of a few disparate shapes and/or symbols.
• The glove template is formed of a piece of material of sufficient size and dimension to include aglove guide906, within which can be provided theglove pattern902. Theglove guide906 is shown as an outline of a golf glove, but the optional alternatives described above with respect toglove template200 also apply here, e.g., with respect to different glove guide forms, accommodating different size gloves, and so on,
• InFIG. 10, theglove template900 is shown to have a rectangular shape. But the shape of the glove template is not limited to a rectangle; the outer shape of the glove template is not significant as long as it contains theglove pattern902. In some embodiments, for example, theglove template900 could be the same shape as theglove guide906, i.e., theglove template900 could be the shape of a golf glove. Theglove template900 can be made of a rigid, semi-rigid or flexible material, as discussed above.
• InFIG. 11, theglove template900 is shown along with an example of agolf glove12, to demonstrate how the palm side of thegolf glove12 can be aligned with theglove guide906, thereby aligning theglove pattern902 with the palm of theglove12. In this embodiment, theglove template900 is transparent, or at least sufficiently transparent to enable the glove to be aligned with theglove guide906. But if theglove template900 is the shape of the glove (or glove guide), then transparency is not particularly necessary. In such a case, theglove template900 could be opaque or nearly opaque. A right-handed glove12 andglove template900 are shown as an example inFIG. 11. By flipping glove template over, theglove template900 could be used with a left-handed glove (not shown).
• Within theglove template900, theglove pattern902 is oriented with respect to theglove guide906, and the glove guide enables placement of a golf glove so theglove pattern902 can be properly located within a palm side of thegolf glove12.
• Referring toFIG. 12, theglove template900 is placed on theglove12 so that the glove is located within theglove guide906. This orientation allows theglove pattern902 to be correctly transferred to the palm side of the glove. In this embodiment, the pattern ofisolated shapes902 includes one or more through-holes formed in theglove template900, which are configured to enable transfer of the pattern ofisolated shapes902 onto the glove using a markingdevice50. The marking device can be a writing implement chosen from a group comprising a pen, a marker, a pencil, or the like.
• Referring toFIG. 13, theglove template900, markingdevice50, andmarked golf glove12 are shown. Here it can be seen that the pattern ofisolated shapes902 has been transferred to theglove12. In this embodiment, the pattern ofisolated shapes902 includes a diamond near a base of a thumb, two diamonds near the bottom of the index finger, and a diamond across the palm of thegolf glove12.
• FIG. 14A shows how amarked glove12 can be used with amarked grip2. InFIG. 14A, the concept of “marrying” the first and second patterns is demonstrated, wherein thegolf glove12 is placed on the golf grip so that the second pattern ofisolated shapes902 on theglove12 is overlapped with the first pattern ofisolated shapes802 on thegrip2 when a player grips the golf club.
• FIG. 14B provides a view showing agrip template800 and aglove template900 withgolf glove12, as a golf grip kit, using the embodiments ofFIGS. 8-13, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept. The two templates could be provided together as a kit, which need not include theglove12.
• FIGS. 15-21 provide a set of views of a third embodiment of a golf grip and a golf glove having corresponding first and second patterns to assist a golfer in achieving a proper golf club grip, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept.
• The embodiment ofFIGS. 15-21 is similar to that of the first embodiment ofFIGS. 1-7 and second embodiment ofFIGS. 8-14. However, in the embodiment ofFIGS. 15-21, the first and second patterns are non-linear patterns of numbers, which are different from the linear patterns ofFIGS. 1-7, as an example. To avoid redundancy, concepts described with respect toFIGS. 1-7 and 8-15 will not be repeated here for describingFIGS. 15-21, although they should be reasonably understood to apply.
• Referring toFIG. 15, shown is agolf grip template100 having a pattern ofnumbers1502 used for marking agolf grip2, includinggrip markings5,6. In this embodiment, thegolf grip template1500 defines the pattern ofnumbers1502 as a non-continuous arrangement ofintegers 1 through 4, but in other embodiments the pattern ofnumbers1502 could comprise a plurality of different numbers. The plurality of numbers may be arranged to form an overall impression of a plurality of numbers.
• In this embodiment, the pattern ofnumbers1502 includes a number “2” near a top portion (A) of thegrip template1500 and a cluster of three numbers (“1,” “3,” “4”)1504 at an intermediate portion (B) thereof. Thegrip template1500 can also includecenterline markings1505,1506 that can be visually lined up with thegrip markings5,6 to make sure that thegrip template1500 is correctly oriented with respect to the centerline C of the golf club, and therefore the club face, as described above.
• More particularly,FIG. 15(a) shows a perspective view of anunmarked golf grip2, in dashed outline, includingmarkings5,6.FIG. 15(b) shows a perspective view of an embodiment of thegolf grip template1500.FIG. 15(c) shows a perspective view thegolf grip2 disposed within thegolf grip template1500. The golf grip template is shown as wrapped around or surrounding thegolf grip2. AndFIG. 15(d) shows a front view of thegolf grip template1500 wrapped around or surrounding thegolf grip2.
• FIG. 16 provides a set of views depictinggrip template1500 andgrip2, demonstrating steps of a method of marking agolf grip2 using thegolf grip template1500 ofFIG. 15, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept.FIGS. 15(c)-15(d) can be viewed as providing initial steps of the method, where thegrip template1500 is disposed on the grip inFIG. 15(c) and aligned inFIG. 15(d). InFIG. 16, thegrip template1500 is disposed on thegrip2 and aligned for marking.
• InFIG. 16(a), with thegrip template1500 in place on thegrip2, a markingdevice50, e.g., a writing implement, is shown transferring the pattern ofisolated shapes1502 from thegrip template1500 to thegrip2. For example, the pattern ofnumbers1502 can include one or more through-holes or channels configured to enable transfer of the pattern ofnumbers1502 onto the golf grip with a marking device. The marking device can be a writing implement chosen from a group comprising a pen, a marker, a pencil, or the like.
• InFIG. 16(b), thegrip template1500 has been removed, andgrip2 is shown with the pattern ofnumbers1502 transferred onto thegrip2. Thus,FIG. 16(b) shows agolf grip2 comprising the pattern ofnumbers1502 useful with a corresponding pattern in a golf glove to reliably provide a proper golf club gripping by a golfer.
• FIG. 17 provides a front view of another embodiment of agolf glove template1600 having a pattern ofisolated shapes1602, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept. The pattern ofnumbers1502 of thegolf grip template1500 can be considered a first pattern and theglove pattern1602 ofglove template1600 can be considered a second pattern, for ease of description. In this embodiment, the first and second patterns are both patterns of numbers, as discussed above. If thegrip template1500 were laid flat, thegrip pattern1502 of thegrip template1500 would have the same configuration of numbers as theglove pattern1602 of theglove template1600, in this embodiment.
• In this embodiment, theglove template1600 defines the pattern of numbers as a non-continuous arrangement ofnumbers 1 through 4, but in other embodiments, the pattern ofnumbers1602 could comprise a plurality of other numbers. In this case, the pattern ofnumbers1602 gives an overall impression of a few disparate numbers.
• The glove template is formed of a piece of material of sufficient size and dimension to include aglove guide1606, within which can be provided theglove pattern1602. Theglove guide1606 is shown as an outline of a golf glove, but the optional alternatives described above with respect toglove template200 also apply here, e.g., with respect to different glove guide forms, accommodating different size gloves, and so on.
• InFIG. 17, theglove template1600 is shown to have a rectangular shape. But the shape of the glove template is not limited to a rectangle; the outer shape of the glove template is not significant as long as it contains theglove pattern1602. In some embodiments, for example, theglove template1600 could be the same shape as theglove guide1606, i.e., theglove template1600 could be the shape of a golf glove. Theglove template1600 can be made of a rigid, semi-rigid or flexible material, as discussed above.
• InFIG. 18, theglove template1600 is shown along with an example of agolf glove12, to demonstrate how the palm side of thegolf glove12 can be aligned with theglove guide1606, thereby aligning theglove pattern1602 with the palm of theglove12. In this embodiment, theglove template1600 is transparent, or at least sufficiently transparent to enable the glove to be aligned with theglove guide1606. But if theglove template1600 is the shape of the glove (or glove guide), then transparency is not particularly necessary. In such a case, theglove template1600 could be opaque or nearly opaque. A right-handed glove12 andglove template1600 are shown as an example inFIG. 18. By flipping glove template over, theglove template1600 could be used with a left-handed glove (not shown),
• Within theglove template1600, theglove pattern1602 is oriented with respect to theglove guide1606, and the glove guide enables placement of a golf glove so theglove pattern1602 can be properly located within a palm side of thegolf glove12.
• Referring toFIG. 19, theglove template1600 is placed on theglove12 so that the glove is located within theglove guide1606. This orientation allows theglove pattern1602 to be correctly transferred to the palm side of the glove. In this embodiment, the pattern ofisolated shapes1602 includes one or more through-holes or channels formed in theglove template1600, which are configured to enable transfer of the pattern ofnumbers1602 onto the glove using a markingdevice50. The marking device can be a writing implement chosen from a group comprising a pen, a marker, a pencil, or the like.
• Referring toFIG. 20, theglove template1600, markingdevice50, andmarked golf glove12 are shown. Here it can be seen that the pattern ofnumbers1602 has been transferred to theglove12. In this embodiment, the pattern ofnumbers1602 includes a number “4” near a base of a thumb, two numbers “1” and “3” near the bottom of the index finger, and a number “2” across the palm of thegolf glove12.
• FIG. 21A shows how amarked glove12 can be used with amarked grip2. InFIG. 21A, the concept of “marrying” the first and second patterns is demonstrated, wherein thegolf glove12 is placed on the golf grip so that the second pattern ofnumbers1602 on theglove12 is overlapped with the first pattern ofnumbers1502 on thegrip2 when a player grips the golf club.
• FIG. 21B provides a view showing agrip template1500 and aglove template1600 withgolf glove12, as a golf grip kit, using the embodiments ofFIGS. 15-20, in accordance with aspects of the inventive concept. The two templates could be provided together as a kit, which need not include theglove12.
• In various embodiments, a golf grip kit can include a golf glove template and a golf club grip template having corresponding patterns.
• While the foregoing has described what are considered to be the best mode and/or other preferred embodiments, it is understood that various modifications can be made therein and that the invention or inventions may be implemented in various forms and embodiments, and that they may be applied in numerous applications, only some of which have been described herein. It is intended by the following claims to claim that which is literally described and all equivalents thereto, including all modifications and variations that fall within the scope of each claim.

Claims (35)

1. A golf glove template, comprising:

a substrate defining a golf glove guide; and

a glove pattern provided within the golf glove guide, the glove pattern comprising one or more lines, numbers, symbols, shapes, or a combination thereof arranged to align with a corresponding pattern of a golf grip.

2. The template ofclaim 1, wherein the glove pattern extends partially up the index finger.

3. The template ofclaim 1, wherein the glove pattern is a pre-inked pattern configured to be applied to a palm side of the golf glove.

4. The template ofclaim 1, wherein one or more through-holes or channels define the glove pattern.

5. The template ofclaim 4, wherein the one or more through-holes or channels are configured to receive a marking device, including a writing implement chosen from a group comprising a pen, a marker, or a pencil.

6. The template ofclaim 1, wherein the substrate is formed of a substantially rigid or semi-rigid material.

7. The template ofclaim 1, wherein the substrate is formed of a flexible material.

8. The template ofclaim 1, wherein the glove pattern is a linear pattern that includes a solid line.

9. The template ofclaim 1, wherein the glove pattern is a linear pattern that includes a dashed line, broken line, or a dotted line.

10. The template ofclaim 1, wherein the glove pattern comprises one or more numbers.

11. The template ofclaim 1, wherein the glove pattern comprises one or more symbols.

12. The template ofclaim 1, wherein the glove pattern comprises one or more shapes.

13. A golf club grip template, comprising:

a substrate configured to at least partially wrap around a golf grip;

at least one golf grip alignment marking formed on or in the substrate; and

a grip pattern formed on or in the substrate in relation the at least one golf grip alignment marking, the grip pattern comprising one or more lines, numbers, symbols, shapes, or a combination thereof.

14. The template ofclaim 13, wherein the grip pattern is a pre-inked pattern configured to be applied to the golf grip.

15. The template ofclaim 13, wherein one or more through-holes or channels define the grip pattern.

16. The template ofclaim 15, wherein the one or more through-holes or channels are configured to receive a marking device, including a writing implement chosen from a group comprising a pen, a marker, or a pencil.

17. The template ofclaim 13, wherein the substrate is formed of a substantially rigid or semi-rigid material.

18. The template ofclaim 13, wherein the substrate is formed of a flexible material.

19. The template ofclaim 13, wherein the grip pattern is a linear pattern that includes a solid line.

20. The template ofclaim 13, wherein the grip pattern is a linear pattern that includes a dashed line, broken line, or a dotted line.

21. The template ofclaim 13, wherein the grip pattern comprises one or more numbers.

22. The template ofclaim 13, wherein the grip pattern comprises one or more symbols.

23. The template ofclaim 13, wherein the grip pattern comprises one or more shapes.

24. A golf glove, comprising:

a palm; and

a glove pattern formed on the palm, wherein the glove pattern is a linear pattern that begins near a base of a thumb, continues diagonally across a palm, and returns across the palm to a base of an index finger of the golf glove.

25. The glove ofclaim 24, wherein the linear pattern extends partially up the index finger.

26. The glove ofclaim 24, wherein the linear pattern is a solid line.

27. The glove ofclaim 24, wherein the linear pattern is a dashed line, broken line, or a dotted line.

28. The glove ofclaim 24, wherein the linear pattern is a linear arrangement of symbols, characters, or shapes.

29. The glove ofclaim 24, wherein the linear pattern is arranged to mate with a corresponding linear pattern on a golf grip to achieve a predetermined golf club grip.

30. A golf club grip, comprising:

a centerline marking; and

a grip pattern formed in relation the at least one golf grip centerline marking, wherein the grip pattern is a linear pattern that begins near a top of the golf grip and extends downwardly and to an intermediate portion of the golf grip.

31. The grip ofclaim 30, wherein the linear pattern is a solid line.

32. The grip ofclaim 30, wherein the linear pattern is a dashed line, broken line, or a dotted line.

33. The grip ofclaim 30, wherein the linear pattern is a linear arrangement of symbols, characters, or shapes.

34. The grip ofclaim 30, wherein the linear pattern is arranged to mate with a corresponding linear pattern on a golf glove to achieve a predetermined golf club grip.

35.-97. (canceled)

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